Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers appears to believe that he can get the best out of Italian international Mario Balotelli. Several managers have struggled and failed to get the best out of the 23-year-old. Balotelli is regarded as a supremely talented striker, but his focus has not been always from the game. Even Jose Mourinho, who is known for creating great players out of average individuals, conceded defeat in trying to get the best out of Balotelli by selling him to Manchester City for £ 25 million.
The former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini attempted different tactics in order to get the best out of the Italian striker, but even that did not pay off dividends. He has since returned to AC Milan and has shown good form in the last 18 months. After having scored more than a goal every other game, Rodgers has the reasons to be keen on the striker. Liverpool recently sold Fabio Borini to Sunderland for around £ 14 million. This has left him with just Ricki Lambert and Daniel Sturridge as the options up front. Last season, Liverpool had three strikers capable of doing the job. Considering that the team will be competing in the Champions League, an additional striker is a necessity rather than a luxury.
“Balotelli is a big talent. I saw that in his time at Inter Milan as a young player and obviously going to Manchester City when we had a real close eye on him there. He’s got all the qualities. He’s 6ft 3ins, he’s quick, his touch is terrific and he can score goals. He went back to Italy to play and he’s still so young. If his focus is right, his concentration is right and he leads the lifestyle of a top player then he can play for any team in the world,” said Rodgers.