Andrea Pirlo believes Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli can still become ‘one of the top forwards in Europe’.
The forward endured a difficult first season at Liverpool last term, scoring just once in the Premier League, but Pirlo still believes in Super Mario.
“I’ll tell you that Mario is one of the nicest guys you will meet,” the former Juventus midfielder told Shortlist.
“I used to walk into training with Italy and even before he said something I could just look at his face and I would start laughing.
Andrea Pirlo believes Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli can still become ‘one of the top forwards in Europe’.
The forward endured a difficult first season at Liverpool last term, scoring just once in the Premier League, but Pirlo still believes in Super Mario.
“I’ll tell you that Mario is one of the nicest guys you will meet,” the former Juventus midfielder told Shortlist.
“I used to walk into training with Italy and even before he said something I could just look at his face and I would start laughing.
“There are never boring moments when Mario is around. He made mistakes when he was younger, he knows this, but I hope next season goes well for him, because I still believe he has all the attributes to be one of the top forwards in Europe.”
Pirlo has moved to MLS to represent New York City FC, and discussed the switch, as well as his new teammate, Frank Lampard.
“I am excited about New York living, it is one of the most iconic cities in the world.
“I am excited to start playing in MLS, and for success with the team, but I want to immerse myself into New York, to live like a New Yorker.
“Lampard? Throughout his career, Frank has positioned himself as one of the greatest goal-scoring midfield players of the generation.
“Often his tally for the season would be what you would expect from a forward. I am sure we can come to some agreement on set pieces…”
The free-kick specialist was also asked about the competition for set pieces with Ronaldinho and David Beckham when the trio were all at Milan.
“David is one of the most stylish men that the world has, and when he was at the club it must have been the only time an Englishman was the best dressed person in the city of Milan.
“When the three of us were in the same team there were so many options over free-kicks, but it was a good option to have.
“The best of us on a night out? Oh definitely Ronaldinho, David and myself would be in bed by 12.”