Not only does the Italian relish the idea of playing with a partner up top, he is also benefiting from the press attention Sturridge is getting.
That takes the pressure off Balotelli somewhat and now there are literally no expectations of him from the fans or the media who have all written him off, it is the perfect time for him to bang in those goals.
Being the lone forward and the one who the spotlight was shining on did not suit the 24 year old – and despite his penchant for the headlines, Balotelli performs best when just allowed to get on with things.