Despite the Criticism, Balotelli Still Has Supporters Like Simone Zaza
While Mario Balotelli is often in the headlines for all the wrong reasons — whether for on-field struggles or controversial gestures like his halftime shirt swap with Pepe during Liverpool’s 3-0 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid — he isn’t without his supporters.
The Ghanaian-born Italian striker has faced a rough start to the season. Dropped from the Italian national team by coach Antonio Conte, underwhelming at Liverpool, and heavily criticized by fans and media alike, Super Mario has become an easy target. Yet amid the noise, Simone Zaza, the Sassuolo striker currently occupying Balotelli’s spot in the national squad, has publicly offered words of support.
“In the national team, there is always a place for good players, and Mario is one of them,” Zaza told Gazzetta di Parma. “I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting him yet, but I hope it will happen soon.”
Despite replacing Balotelli in Italy’s recent call-ups, Zaza showed respect rather than rivalry. His comments reflect a rare voice of understanding and belief in Balotelli’s potential, even amid widespread criticism.
It remains to be seen whether Balotelli can turn things around at club level to earn back his spot in the national team. But for now, he can take comfort knowing that even among competitors, there are those who still believe in his talent.
