“I Played at 20 Percent”: Balotelli on Why Messi and Ronaldo Have So Many Ballon d’Or Prizes

• Mario Balotelli claimed he is at fault for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo scooping so many Ballon d'Or awards
• He has identified his flaws which prevented him from rubbing shoulders with the GOAT duo in terms of this prize
• Meanwhile, Messi and Ronaldo have a combined 12 Ballon d'Or awards with the former collecting seven to his name

Mario Balotelli has faulted himself for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo having so many Ballon d’Or prizes.

The Italian striker, who currently plies his trade in Switzerland for FC Sion, has always possessed the elite talent that might set him apart from the countless strikers trying to make an impact on the game.

However, Super Mario hasn't yet acquired the correct mindset to fully utilise his undoubted skill.

Balotelli was once touted as a potential candidate to win the coveted diadem but some flaws have kept him from reaching his full potential and being placed among the pantheons of the game's greats, per Sportskeeda.

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Reflecting on a conversation he had with late agent, Mino Raiola, the striker admitted his lack of effort has contributed towards Messi and Ronaldo collecting 12 golden balls between them.

“Raiola always told me the same thing: If Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have so many Ballon d’Or trophies, it is your fault. He was right; too often I played at 20% of my capabilities,” he told Muschio Selvaggio podcast, as quoted by GOAL.

Balotelli ends goal drought

Sports Brief also reported on veteran Italian striker, Balotelli ending his goal drought of five months after finding the back of the net for FC Sion.

The former Inter Milan star was on target for the Swiss side during their top flight league clash against Grasshoppers on April 17.

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Balotelli made a bright start to life in Switzerland with an four goals in his first six Swiss Super League matches but his scoring dried up after.

Why Balotelli owes Inter Milan

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on FC Sion forward, Balotelli paying Inter Milan tribute for the huge role the club played in his careerin his career as a footballer.

The Italian grew up through the ranks at the Nerazzurri and became one of the most sought-after youngsters due to his enormous talent.

The 32-year-old Balotelli recently revealed how the Serie A club still held a special place in his heart and he is still a huge fan of theirs.