Mario Balotelli has spoken warmly about his admiration for former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah and ex-Inter Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari, revealing that the Ghanaian pair were his footballing inspirations growing up.
The Italian forward, who was born to Ghanaian parents, said he followed the Black Stars closely during his childhood and particularly admired players who represented the national team during their peak years.
Balotelli’s connection with Ghanaian football also became personal during his time in Italy’s top flight, where he shared a dressing room with Muntari at Inter Milan. The pair were part of the squad that won the UEFA Champions League in 2010 under Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho.
He also watched Appiah during his playing days in Serie A with Juventus, further strengthening his admiration for Ghanaian talent on the European stage.
Although he went on to represent Italy at international level, including appearances at major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and the European Championship, Balotelli has now reflected on the influence Ghanaian players had on his development and footballing identity.
Speaking to beIN Sports, he said:
“I used to love Stephen Appiah. I used to love him then I played with Sulley Muntari. These two were the players I looked up to the most. Especially Sulley Muntari because we played together in Inter and Milan. He can shoot from anywhere,” he told beIN Sports.
Now 35, Balotelli’s international career was largely associated with Italy, but his recent comments highlight a continued emotional connection to Ghana, the country of his parents.
That connection has become even more visible following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. With the Azzurri absent from the tournament, Balotelli has declared his support for Ghana instead.
He was present at Lincoln Field Stadium to watch Ghana face Croatia in their final Group L match last Saturday, signalling his public backing for the Black Stars during the competition.
“There is no Italy in the World Cup, so I support Ghana. I am from Ghana, and I’m proud. I love the players. Semenyo, I love the way he plays. I think 2010 was the best team of Ghana,” he said.
Balotelli’s comments come at a time when Ghana remain in contention at the tournament. The Black Stars are preparing for a crucial knockout-stage clash against Colombia on Friday in Kansas City, where a place in the last 16 will be at stake.
The match represents a significant moment for Ghana as they aim to progress further in the competition, with support coming from a high-profile former Italy international who has openly aligned himself with their World Cup campaign.
