Balotelli's Rabona and five-goal masterclass opens door to big summer transfer
Karan Tejwani
- Updated: 23 May 2022 12:10 BST
- 3 min read
Mario Balotelli seems to be a forgotten man in recent times, and has spent the past season in Turkey with Super Lig side Adana Demirspor.
Last night, however, he reminded everyone of his supreme talent, scoring five goals in his side’s final game of the season against Goztepe, which Adana won 7-0.
The last of the five goals was a wonderful rabona, coming at the end of a solo move which started off with seven step-overs to beat the defender, before the finish.
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It was a goal that embodied Balotelli: a gifted football, capable of the brilliant so often and when it works out, he catches the eye of the football world.
Could a move be on the cards for Balotelli?
Balotelli seems to have enjoyed himself in Turkey this season, and his team finished ninth in the league, to which he’s had a significant contribution.
The Italian forward has scored 19 goals this season across 33 appearances, which is his best return for a single season since 2017-18, when he scored 26 goals in a campaign for Nice.
It’s possible his impressive form in Turkey opens the door to another move – the forward is still 31, so he may have a bit to offer as he approaches the final years of his career.
Balotelli had a difficult end to his Manchester City career, and his Liverpool spell didn't go out as planned, but that seems to be a thing of the past since he moved to Turkey, which could tempt others to make a move for the forward.
Mario Balotelli scored five goals today - including this outrageous finish 🤯 pic.twitter.com/TDQLkgENjw
— Football Transfers (@Transfersdotcom) May 22, 2022
Balotelli has also racked up a few miles in recent years, having made 10 permanent transfers throughout his career, and four in the last three years.
Despite not staying for long, he has had successful stints in Italy and France, providing good goal returns for the amount he plays and showing his qualities when given the opportunity to do so.
Such was his form in Turkey that he even got a surprise call-up to Roberto Mancini’s Italy squad in January, getting a chance to play in their February friendlies, which was his first call-up since 2018.
Clubs in Italy in France – especially those in mid-table or those lower down the leagues – will be keeping an eye on Balotelli’s form, and could swoop in for a move in the summer transfer window.
