Itachi was definitely one of the most favorite characters in Naruto probably cause of his attitude. I doubt Sasuke could ever have killed him if it wasn't for his disease. Also Sasuke's mangekyou doesn't look nearly as cool as Itachi's. And I think Itachi's dead body being eaten (maybe) by the guy with dual personality was way too much. At least give hima dignifying death, the guy gave up everything to ensure that a war didn't start up.