Two award ceremonies, two players, two very different reactions…

Mario Balotelli after being presented with the Golden Boy trophy, organised by the Turin newspaper Tuttosport and voted for by European journalists to honour the most talented footballer under the age of 21, was cocky, arrogant and disrespectful towards other players. Jack Wilshere came second.

“What’s his name? Wil … ? No, I don’t know him, but the next time I play against Arsenal I will keep a close eye on him. Perhaps I can show him the Golden Boy trophy and remind him that I won it.”

What about past winners? Messi, Rooney, Fabregas, Aguero, van der Vaart etc.

“There’s only one that is a little stronger than me: Messi. All the others are behind me. I am delighted to receive the award, but who should have won it but me? Two years ago I finished sixth and then fourth in 2009. It was finally my turn.”

What about the future?

Balotelli has been linked with a return back to Italy where AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has spoken publicly of his desire to play with the Italian international.

“Let him continue to do it, so one day his wish will be fulfilled and I can wear the Rossoneri shirt.”

Dimitar Berbatov after being voted Bulgarian Footballer of the Year was modest and keen to celebrate the success of other players.

“I prefer to see some of the younger lads winning the award. Please, don’t vote for me anymore.”

What about the future?

“I fought to have a chance to play for United and now I can only go down if I leave. Why I should do this? It would be better to retire.”