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Former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand and ex-Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli set aside their past rivalry as they joined forces as pundits for the final of the 2022/23 UEFA Champions League in Istanbul on Saturday, June 10.
The duo took the opportunity to address their infamous feud that erupted during the 2011 FA Cup semi-final. Despite Manchester City's 1-0 victory over United at Wembley, Ferdinand was incensed when Balotelli celebrated in front of the United fans at the final whistle.
A furious Ferdinand confronted Balotelli, but the situation was diffused by goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar and other teammates, as well as City manager Roberto Mancini, who called for calm.
Over a decade later, the two adversaries found themselves on the same platform as part of BT Sport's coverage of the Champions League final. Before commencing their work, they shared a warm embrace, signaling the resolution of their past differences.
During an interview, Ferdinand shed light on why he reacted to Balotelli's celebration.
"Mario was celebrating after the game in front of our fans and I took offense and wasn't happy," Ferdinand explained. He acknowledged that Balotelli remained composed under pressure.
Balotelli responded to Ferdinand's comments, stating, "I was celebrating towards their fans and understood why they got angry. It happened on the pitch and finished on the pitch."
Former English centre-back Joleon Lescott added: 'Mario was brilliant at winding up opposition players and fans.'
The duo took the opportunity to address their infamous feud that erupted during the 2011 FA Cup semi-final. Despite Manchester City's 1-0 victory over United at Wembley, Ferdinand was incensed when Balotelli celebrated in front of the United fans at the final whistle.
A furious Ferdinand confronted Balotelli, but the situation was diffused by goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar and other teammates, as well as City manager Roberto Mancini, who called for calm.
Over a decade later, the two adversaries found themselves on the same platform as part of BT Sport's coverage of the Champions League final. Before commencing their work, they shared a warm embrace, signaling the resolution of their past differences.
During an interview, Ferdinand shed light on why he reacted to Balotelli's celebration.
"Mario was celebrating after the game in front of our fans and I took offense and wasn't happy," Ferdinand explained. He acknowledged that Balotelli remained composed under pressure.
Balotelli responded to Ferdinand's comments, stating, "I was celebrating towards their fans and understood why they got angry. It happened on the pitch and finished on the pitch."
Former English centre-back Joleon Lescott added: 'Mario was brilliant at winding up opposition players and fans.'