Balotelli reveals he abandoned Juventus move to join Milan: “A quick trip”

Mario Balotelli has revealed that before joining AC Milan, he was actually meant to go to Juventus, opting for the Rossoneri in the end. 

Balotelli played for Milan in two different spells: first for one and a half seasons between 2012 and 2014, then the 2016-17 season on loan. The former was undoubtedly the more successful time with the club, as it ultimately earned him the move back to the Premier League and Liverpool.

Speaking at the Festival dello Sport (via Calciomercato.com), Balotelli revealed that he came close to joining Juventus before he eventually ended up at Milan. Adriano Galliani worked some of his usual magic and was able to get the deal over the line.

“In theory, I was supposed to go to Juventus, but with Mino Raiola we made a quick trip to Milan and in the end, I went to AC Milan. However, I left Manchester to return to Italy and I went to Turin to join Juventus,” he stated.

That period with Milan, before he joined Liverpool, was probably one of the best moments in Balotelli’s career. He played a key role for the team and scored some fantastic goals in the process, truly showcasing his qualities after some tougher years.