5 superstars who never lived up to their potential

#3 Jack Wilshere

Arsenal v Norwich City - Premier League

There is still awe when one looks back on Jack Wilshere's performance against Barcelona in the 2010-11 UEFA Champions League campaign.

Wilshere's performance that night made him a household name, with many touting the young midfielder as the future of England. A product of the Arsenal academy, such were Wilshere's consistent performances as a youngster that he was named in the PFA Team of the Year for the 2010-11 season.

However, the 29-year-old has been extremely unlucky with injuries. Arsenal released him in 2018, and the England international spent some time with West Ham United before joining EFL Championship side Bournemouth earlier this year. He was released by the club recently.

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#2 Mario Balotelli

Parma Calcio v Brescia Calcio - Serie A

"Super Mario" has always been a mercurial figure. Controversy's favorite child, Mario Balotelli's immense talent has been overshadowed by his actions off the field.

The Italy international emerged as one of the best young players in the world during his spell with Inter Milan. Despite his good displays on the field, Balotelli was accused of disciplinary issues, an accusation that would be leveled at him throughout his career.

The 30-year-old represented some of the biggest clubs in the world like Manchester City, AC Milan and Liverpool, but struggled to get going due to various issues. Balotelli currently plays for Monza in the second division of Italy.

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#1 Adriano

Atletico PR v The Strongest

Regarded as one of the best strikers in the world for a short period of time, Adriano enjoyed his best football in Italy.

A complete forward, Adriano looked destined for the very top after a stunning spell with Parma in which he scored 23 league goals in just 37 appearances. He joined Inter Milan in 2004, where he made 115 league appearances and scored 47 goals for the Nerazzurri.

However, Adriano's decline was evident during his Inter Milan spell, especially after some tragic personal news. Questions were raised over his discipline and work ethic, while there was a clear lack of fitness.

The Brazil international eventually left Inter Milan to join Flamengo on a permanent deal in 2009 but failed to recapture the form that catapulted him to glory. The 39-year-old retired in 2016.

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