Balotelli explains problems with Klopp and Rodgers

Matt Stead

Striker Mario Balotelli believes his ill-fated move to Liverpool was the “worst mistake” of his life.

The Italy international was bought for £16million in the summer of 2014 by then manager Brendan Rodgers, but scored just four goals in 28 appearances.

It quickly became apparent he did not fit in with Rodgers’ style of play and soon fell out of favour, being loaned out to AC Milan last season.

He returned this summer, but, with no future under new boss Jurgen Klopp, who opted not to include him on their pre-season tour to the United States or any of the club’s other friendlies, he completed a free transfer to Nice on deadline day.

“It was the worst mistake of my life,” Balotelli, who scored twice in Sunday’s Ligue 1 debut as Nice beat Marseille 3-2, told Canal Plus.

“Apart from the fans, who were fantastic with me, I must be honest, and the players, who I had a good rapport with, I didn’t like the club.

“I had two coaches, Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp. As people they didn’t make a good impression on me. I didn’t get along with them.”

Balotelli made his Nice debut on Sunday, scoring two goals in a 3-2 victory over Marseille.