Balotelli believes in Ballon success

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli has proclaimed he can win FIFA’s Ballon d’Or.

Italy international Balotelli feels that he has the qualities to win the prestigious award in the future, but admitted that much depends on whether Barcelona star Lionel Messi will be able to maintain his current level.

Argentina international Messi followed in the footsteps of France legend Michel Platini earlier this year when he won the individual trophy for the third time in succession, but Balotelli is ready to take Messi’s place once the latter’s form dips.

“I can win the Ballon d’Or, but only if Messi’s level drops a bit,” former Inter attacker Balotelli told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“It will be very complicated to do so if he keeps up his current form. I really believe I can win the award, but there’s not much I can do if Messi maintains this level.”

Balotelli, 21, joined Manchester City from Inter prior to the 2010-11 season, and has become an important first-team member for Roberto Mancini’s side.