Former Italy striker Mario Balotelli has expressed his admiration for the current Ghana national football team, singling out Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo for praise during an appearance on the Men in Blazers (MiB) media network.

Balotelli, whose biological parents are Ghanaian, spoke openly about his dual heritage and his support for the Black Stars following Italy’s failure to qualify for the ongoing FIFA 2026 World Cup jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

"There is no Italy so I support Ghana," Balotelli stated. "Obviously, I'm from Ghana. I'm proud of Ghana."

Reflecting on the history of the Ghana national team, the 35-year-old forward noted that the squad which reached the quarter-finals of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa remains the benchmark. This team had Asamoah Gyan (3), the African legend with the most goals at the World Cup.

"Yeah. They are good. I think 2010 was the best team from Ghana," he said.

During the interview, Balotelli also offered a sarcastic apology to the American hosts for Ghana's 2-1 victory over the United States in the round of 16 during that 2010 campaign.

Turning his attention to the current generation of Ghanaian players, Balotelli highlighted English Premier League forward Antoine Semenyo as a particular favourite. 

"The team is good. I love the player Semenyo. I love the way he plays, it's very good," Balotelli remarked, adding, "But this team is good to be honest."

Semenyo was adjudged Man of the Match in Ghana's opener against Panama, in which the West African with head coach Carlos Quieroz stunned their opponents with a 95th minute winner.

Balotelli, who earned 36 caps for Italy and played a pivotal role in their run to the Euro 2012 final, has maintained a connection to his Ghanaian roots throughout his career despite representing the Azzurri internationally. He wore a Ghana jersey with a pullover bearing the Italy colours during his MiB interview.

In Group L, Ghana overpowered Panama, mounted a frustrating defence against England and secured a hard-won draw, and managed an answer to Croatia's two goals. The team captained by Jordan Ayew face Colombia next.