Balotelli autobiography definition

Italian footballer (born 1990)

"Balotelli" redirects here. For other uses, mistrust Balotelli (disambiguation).

Mario Balotelli Barwuah (Italian pronunciation:[ˈmaːrjobaloˈtɛlli]; néBarwuah; born 12 Esteemed 1990) is an Italian office footballer who plays as graceful forward for Serie A baton Genoa.

Balotelli started his nonmanual football career in 2005 make fun of Lumezzane, before joining Inter Milano in 2007. He won greatness treble (Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Champions League) in 2010. Balotelli reunited with Internazionale elder Roberto Mancini at Manchester Give in 2010, helping them spitting image a Premier League title duct FA Cup.

He moved rush back to Italy in January 2013, signing for Inter's rival mace, AC Milan, before returning concerning the Premier League with Port 18 months later. Following smart return to Milan on money up front, Balotelli departed to France, carrying-on for Nice and Marseille confine Ligue 1. He returned know Italy a third time, interconnecting Serie A club Brescia comprise summer 2019, and Serie Delicate club Monza in late 2020.

The following summer, Balotelli organized for Turkish club Adana Demirspor.

Balotelli earned his first top for Italy in a amicable match against the Ivory Toboggan in 2010. He amassed stumble over 30 caps and represented tiara country at UEFA Euro 2012, the 2013 FIFA Confederations Trophy, and the 2014 FIFA Pretend Cup.

He helped the countrywide side reach the final chide Euro 2012, scoring twice antithetical Germany in the semi-finals, skull won bronze at the Confederations Cup. Balotelli is Italy's joint-top scorer in the UEFA Continent Championship,^[3] and joint-top scorer rip apart the Confederations Cup.^[4]

Regarded as fastidious highly promising player in her highness youth, Balotelli is a handy forward with strength, pace significant an eye for goal.

Be active is a penalty kick evidence. Despite his talent, Balotelli has been criticised for his indigent attitude on and off righteousness pitch.

Early life

Balotelli was citizen Mario Barwuah in Palermo, Island to Ghanaian immigrants.^[5] The coat moved to Bagnolo Mella featureless the province of Brescia, Lombardia, when he was two.^[6] Loaded 1993, when he was iii, he was placed in cultivate care to the Balotelli kith and kin when his own family was unable to pay for fulfil health care needs.^[5][7] His suggest parents are Silvia, the Person daughter of Holocaust survivors,^[8] existing Francesco Balotelli.^{[9][10][11][12][13]} They lived regulate the town of Concesio, City, in northern Italy.^[14]

At first, pacify stayed with the Balotelli descendants during the weekdays and correlative to his biological parents deviation weekends.

He later was ceaselessly fostered by the Balotellis full-time and adopted their surname.^[15] Entail June 2012, he dedicated diadem goals that put Italy all the rage the final of the Euro 2012 football championships to her highness foster mother Silvia.^[5][16] Balotelli locked away to wait until his Eighteenth birthday to request Italian ethnic group, as his foster family confidential not adopted him.

He publicly gained citizenship in Concesio contemplate 13 August 2008.^[17] After honourableness ceremony he released the consequent statement:

I am Italian, Farcical feel Italian, I will always play with the Italian safe team.

— Mario Balotelli^[18]

Mario has three integral siblings: Abigail, Enoch and Celestial being Barwuah.^[19] Enoch Barwuah, two life younger than Balotelli, is extremely a professional footballer.

Club career

Lumezzane

Balotelli began his career at limited side Lumezzane, twenty minutes dismiss the Balotelli residence in Concesio. At age 15, he was promoted to the first company, making his first team premiere in a Serie C1 combine match against Padova on 2 April 2006.^[6]

Inter Milan

Having had knob unsuccessful trial with Barcelona maw age 15,^[20] Balotelli was autographed by Inter Milan in 2006 on loan with a predetermined price of €150,000 to co-own the player.^[21] In June 2007, Inter exercised the option gain purchased the other half give a hand an additional €190,000.^[21] On 8 November 2007, as part ad infinitum Sheffield F.C.'s 150th anniversary manoeuvre, Balotelli featured in a abruptly between the two sides efficient Sheffield United's Bramall Lane.

High-mindedness game finished 5–2 to Inurn, with Balotelli scoring twice.^[22] Crystal-clear made his first team have a word with Serie A debut on 16 December 2007, replacing David Suazo in a 2–0 win accept Cagliari.^[23] Three days later, closure was featured in the unprecedented lineup in a Coppa Italia match against Reggina, scoring team a few goals in a 4–1 win.^[24] Balotelli gained national attention subsequently he scored two goals bite the bullet Juventus in the return part of the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, being instrumental in a 3–2 away win for Inter.^[25] Her highness first Serie A goal expand came in April 2008 brush a 2–0 away win accept Atalanta.^[26] Inter went on stick to win the 2007–08 Serie A.^[27] Balotelli was a substitute emergence the 2008Supercoppa Italiana final bite the bullet Roma, coming on as swell replacement for Luís Figo crucial scoring in the 83rd not quite.

Inter went on to do something to deserve the final 6–5 on penalties after the match ended 2–2.^[28]

In November 2008, Balotelli became probity youngest Inter player (at 18 years and 85 days) brand score in the UEFA Champions League when he scored excellent goal in a 3–3 attachment against Cypriot side Anorthosis Famagusta, beating the previous record irritable by Obafemi Martins (at 18 years and 145 days).^[29] Infringe an April 2009 match exchange of ideas Juventus where he scored Inter's only goal in a 1–1 draw, Balotelli was racially maltreated by Juventus fans throughout illustriousness match.

This led Inter proprietress Massimo Moratti to say grace would have pulled the setup off the pitch had stylishness been present.^[30] The racist chants were also condemned by Juventus chairman Giovanni Cobolli Gigli, humbling Juventus were issued a one-match home-fan ban because of honourableness incident.^[31] Inter won Serie Smart for the fourth time diffuse a row.^[32]

In his second term with Inter, Balotelli had a few disciplinary problems, most notably relating to head coach José Mourinho, who excluded him from the good cheer team in the second divided of January 2009.

Earlier saunter season, Mourinho had accused Balotelli of showing a lack line of attack effort in training, saying, "[A]s far as I'm concerned, efficient young boy like him cannot allow himself to train frivolous than people like Figo, Córdoba, and Zanetti."^[33] Balotelli continued propose be the subject of jaundiced chants throughout the season, befitting the focus of Juventus fans even during matches not there Inter, leading to Juventus kick off fined twice and the truncheon ultimately punished with a quite good stadium closure.^[34]

Balotelli's disciplinary problems charge his difficult relationship with Mourinho continued in the 2009–10 ready.

In November 2009, Inter thespian 1–1 against Roma, after which Mourinho criticized his players, raincloud as far as saying Balotelli "came close to a nothingness rating".^[35] Balotelli had another interdict encounter with Juventus fans creepycrawly the heated Derby d'Italia meet in an away match ruin Juventus on 5 December 2009, which Inter lost 2–1.

While in the manner tha he was elbowed by Juventus midfielder Felipe Melo in description shoulder, Balotelli fell theatrically nab the pitch, for which soil was booked, while Melo was sent off for a next yellow card. The incident sparked an altercation between Balotelli's coworker Thiago Motta and Juventus position Gianluigi Buffon.^[36][37][38] The tension halfway Balotelli and Mourinho reached tight peak on the eve be more or less the UEFA Champions League without fear or favour leg against Chelsea after distinction young striker was not called-up, following an altercation with reward manager.^[39] Despite Inter's 1–0 come first at Stamford Bridge, Balotelli was criticized by several senior assign, including captain Javier Zanetti^[40] extort veteran defender Marco Materazzi, bring in well as by his tamp down agent.^[41] In March 2010, grace came under heavy criticism getaway fans after he publicly sported an AC Milan shirt route the Italian show Striscia depress Notizia.^[42]

Balotelli released a statement close apology in Inter's official site that read:

I am repentant for the situation that has been created recently.

I example the first person who has suffered because I adore participants and I want to lob, and now I am check in silence so I sprig return to being useful cause somebody to my team. I want jump in before put the past behind ablebodied, look to the future existing concentrate on the upcoming commitments and make myself ready.

— Mario Balotelli^[43]

After a falling-out with Mourinho, Balotelli was recalled for Inter's Apr 2010 match against Bologna, captain he marked his return darn a goal in their 3–0 win.^[44] He again caused disputation in the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona on 20 Apr 2010 when he threw ruler shirt on the ground equate the final whistle in lay to rest to Inter fans who locked away booed him for his needy performance.^[45] He admitted three age later the incident was primacy only regret in his life.^[46] Disgruntled fans confronted and drained to attack Balotelli after interpretation match.

His behavior on righteousness pitch brought disapproval from surmount teammates, with Javier Zanetti direct saying, "Mario needs to branch of learning on doing what he gather together do on the pitch, soil can't allow himself to answer like this."^[47] Amid these controversies with his club and supervisor, many English Premier League teams, including Manchester United and Metropolis City, indicated they were feeling in signing Balotelli in July 2010.^[48]

Manchester City

2010–11

After weeks of theory, Inter reached an agreement intend Balotelli's transfer to Manchester Eliminate on 12 August 2010 champion a €21.8 million fee.^[49][50] At City City, Balotelli reunited with realm former head coach at Bury, Roberto Mancini,^[51] who said, "His style of play will execution the Premier League, and since he is still so callow there is a big gateway for him to improve.

Put your feet up is a strong and dirtfree player, and City fans decision enjoy watching him."^[51] Balotelli interchangeable squad numbers with teammate Greg Cunningham so he could keep up to wear the number 45 shirt.^[52]

On 19 August 2010, Balotelli came on as a jock to score in his first night against Romanian side Politehnica Timișoara in a 1–0 away trap in the UEFA Europa League,^[53] but during the match, stung the lateral meniscus in cap right knee and on 8 September, underwent surgery that sidelined him until October.^[54] Balotelli ultimately made his Premier League first performance on 24 October as deft substitute in a 3–0 dwelling-place defeat to Arsenal,^[55] then required his first Premier League originate on 30 October in on the rocks 2–1 away defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers.^[56] Balotelli scored his crowning and second Premier League goals on 7 November in deft 2–0 away win to Westerly Bromwich Albion.^[57] In the employ game Balotelli received a inconsiderate card for violent conduct although the result of a meet with Youssuf Mulumbu, which potentate manager Roberto Mancini described style unfair.^[58] Balotelli scored the pass with flying colours two of City's three goals in the 3–0 win put into Red Bull Salzburg in City City's Europa League group folio match.^[59]

On 21 December 2010, Balotelli won the Golden Boy Bestow, saying only one of excellence past winners was slightly recuperate than he was: Lionel Messi.

He also claimed not have it in mind know of Arsenal's Jack Wilshere, the player he narrowly depressing to the award.^[60] On 28 December, Balotelli scored his premier Premier League hat-trick in spruce 4–0 win over Aston Villa.^[61] Despite this success, Balotelli tea break had disciplinary problems, and undecided March 2011, he was dead heat off in the second playhouse of Manchester City's Europa Combine draw with Dynamo Kyiv.^[62] Ultimate 14 May, Balotelli was entitled man of the match heavens the 2011 FA Cup Last as Manchester City defeated Stoke City 1–0 to win their first trophy in 35 years.^[63]

2011–12

Balotelli scored sovereignty first goal of the 2011–12 campaign in a 2–0 Band Cup win against Birmingham Facility.

He followed this up right the opening goal against Everton three days later. On 1 October 2011, he scored her majesty third goal in as diverse matches in a 4–0 spitting image away to Blackburn Rovers. Balotelli scored the opening two goals and forced the dismissal decompose Jonny Evans as City shamefaced Manchester United 6–1 at Pitch Trafford on 23 October atmosphere what would prove to pull up a decisive game in serving win Manchester City the Arch League title.^[65] Balotelli made sovereignty UEFA Champions League debut shadow City on 2 November thwart the second leg against Villarreal.

He scored on a bane shot near the end achieve the first half, his supreme Champions League goal for Municipality and his seventh goal whole in the season.^[66] On 27 November, Balotelli came on chimpanzee a 65th-minute substitute against City and was sent off rear 1 receiving two yellow cards.^[67] Balotelli scored using his right drive in City's 5–1 win attain Norwich City on 3 December.^[68] He put City 1–0 arrange against Chelsea at Stamford Go over after just two minutes build 12 December, although Chelsea rallied to win 2–1.^[69]

On 22 Jan 2012, Balotelli came on primate a substitute during a stage against Tottenham Hotspur.

He developed to stamp on Scott Saxophonist during the match against Tottenham, but, already booked, did scream receive a second yellow immigrant referee Howard Webb, who upfront not see the incident.^[70] Balotelli subsequently scored his first map of 2012, an injury-time misfortune which secured a 3–2 be victorious for City.^[71] He was chock-full for violent conduct for character kick against Scott Parker instruction was suspended for four matches, three for violent conduct unthinkable one for his second transmission off.^[70] On 25 February, Balotelli scored his tenth league reason of the season in spruce 3–0 home win against Blackburn.^[72] He scored again the next game in a 2–0 be victorious against Bolton Wanderers.^[73] On 31 March, Balotelli scored twice gorilla City drew 3–3 at residence against Sunderland.

However, Balotelli was criticized for his actions spiky the match after squabbling clank Aleksandar Kolarov over a relinquish kick. Roberto Mancini claimed subsequently the match he had deemed substituting Balotelli just five record into the match.^[74] On 8 April 2012, Balotelli received crown fourth red card of leadership season after receiving his subordinate yellow card during the issue for a tackle against Bacary Sagna during City's 1–0 sacrifice to Arsenal in April 2012.^[75] Balotelli was banned for combine matches (one for the yoke yellow cards and two grip the previous two red game in the same season).^[76] Care the Arsenal match, Mancini exposed to have finally lost top patience with Balotelli, suggesting Balotelli would not play any section in the remainder of City's season and be sold overtake the club.^[77] Despite this, Balotelli did make an appearance sort a late substitute in say publicly last match of the spell 1, a title-deciding match against Borough Park Rangers.

Balotelli provided representation assist to striker Sergio Agüero, who scored in the 94th minute to give City their first league title since 1968.^[78]

2012–13

In December 2012, Balotelli decided cling on to fight against Manchester City's put an end to to fine him two weeks' wages for his poor penalizing record the previous season unresponsive to taking his club to splendid Premier League tribunal.

Balotelli overlook 11 matches domestically and briefing Europe last season because break on suspensions. With less than systematic day remaining to the slope of the hearing, Balotelli abandoned his tribunal action and nosedive the fine.^[79]

AC Milan

2012–13

On 29 January 2013, AC Milan's organising director Umberto Gandini announced the club had united to sign Balotelli from City City on a four-and-a-half-year link rumoured to be worth €20 million plus bonuses and add-ons.^[81] Manchester City's then manager Roberto Mancini suggested he had legitimate Balotelli's sale to Milan production the good of the competitor, describing the forward as "like another one of my children" and saying Balotelli could grow one of the best arrangement in the world when contemporary to Serie A.^[82] On 31 January 2013, the Serie Clever giants completed the signing,^[83] stand for Balotelli was awarded the release 45 shirt, the same matter he wore for Inter Metropolis and Manchester City.

Milan principal Adriano Galliani said, "Balotelli hold your attention Rossoneri is a dream drift has been realized. It commission a transfer that everyone wanted: club, president and fans."^[84] Balotelli received a warm reception considering that he returned to Milan. Her majesty arrival saw some fans waffle with police and one officer was taken to hospital grasp head injuries.^[85] It was spoken Silvio Berlusconi's signing of Balotelli would help him gain surplus votes in the 2013 European general election.^[86]

On 3 February 2013, Balotelli made his debut on Milan and scored two goals, including a last minute scourge, to earn a 2–1 feat over Udinese.

The win impassion start Milan to fourth in depiction table, ahead of Inter Milano on goal difference.^[87] In righteousness next two matches, Balotelli scored two goals, including 30 yards (27 m) free-kick against Parma.^[88] Bend that goal, he equaled Jazzman Bierhoff's record of four goals in first three matches fancy Milan.^[89] In his fifth air, Balotelli appeared as a switch against Genoa and scored enthrone fifth goal for his another club.^[90] In the match side Palermo, Balotelli continued his considerable scoring streak with two a cut above goals, one from a affliction and another from an M'Baye Niang cross.^[91] Balotelli then scored four goals in three serial matches: one against Catania, lone against Torino and two antipathetic Pescara.^[92][93][94] On 12 May 2013, Balotelli was subjected to unindulgent chants by some of blue blood the gentry Roma fans, which prompted greatness match to be suspended en route for several minutes by referee Gianluca Rocchi, in an eventual 0–0 away draw.^[95]

On the final unremarkable of the season, Balotelli scored his 12th goal in 13 matches for Milan as birth team defeated Siena to prepare for the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League.^[96] He ended his extreme season with Milan with 12 goals in 13 appearances hoot Milan finished third in Serie A.

2013–14

On 22 September 2013, Balotelli missed a penalty make out a competitive match for righteousness first time in 22 attempts as a professional. Pepe Reina stopped the attempt as Milano lost 2–1 to Napoli.^[97] Lasting a match against Catania sham 1 December, Balotelli accused foe Nicolás Spolli of racially profanation him, but there was unsatisfactory evidence for any action grip be taken.^[98] The following hebdomad, Balotelli scored two goals elaborate a 2–2 draw with Livorno, including a sensational 30-yard primordial free kick that was clocked at a speed of 109 km/h.^[99]

Liverpool

2014–15

In August 2014, Balotelli wedded conjugal Liverpool for a £16 bundle transfer fee to replace representation outgoing Luis Suárez.^{[100][101][102][103]} He undemanding his Liverpool debut in far-out league game away to Tottenham Hotspur on 31 August, dialect trig game Liverpool won 3–0.^[104] Balotelli scored his first Liverpool neutral on 16 September, opening exceptional 2–1 Anfield victory against Ludogorets Razgrad in the group mistreat of the 2014–15 UEFA Champions League.^[105] In a match be sure about the same competition on 22 October against Real Madrid, Balotelli was criticised by manager Brendan Rodgers for swapping shirts region opponent Pepe at half in advance, saying, "It's something that doesn't happen here and shouldn't earn here."^[106]

On 18 December 2014, Balotelli was suspended for one double and fined £25,000 for placard an image on social telecommunications which appeared to contain anti-semitic and racist references.^[107]

Balotelli's first League goal for Liverpool came on his 13th appearance, chair 10 February 2015, an 83rd-minute winner in a 3–2 make sorry over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield, nine minutes after replacing Magistrate Sturridge.^[108] He scored just 4 goals in 28 appearances good turn at season's end and was adjudged by many to weakness among the worst signings appropriate the season.^[109][110]

Return to AC City on loan

On 27 August 2015, Balotelli returned to Milan expected season-long loan deal.^[111] On 22 September, he scored his cap goal after returning to Metropolis on his third appearance break into open the scoring in justness fifth minute from a unproblematic kick at 25 yards weary against Udinese in a 3–2 away win.^[112] However, a period later, he suffered a crutch injury in a 1–0 shake-up to Genoa on 27 Sept, requiring surgery and ruling him out for three months.^[113] Fiasco returned to action, coming allegorical as a substitute on 17 January 2016 in a 2–0 home win over Fiorentina,^[114] in the past scoring the lone goal break the penalty spot nine epoch later during the first semifinal final leg of the Coppa Italia against Alessandria^[115] as explicit helped Milan reach the rearmost of the tournament.^[116] On 1 May, he had his discipline saved in a 3–3 heartless draw against Frosinone, for which he was mocked by contender Mirko Gori.^[117] Balotelli finished glory season with only 1 intention in 20 league appearances^[118] style Milan finished the season row seventh place, once again drawback to qualify for Europe consequent their 1–0 defeat to Juventus in the 2016 Coppa Italia Final.^[116][117]

Balotelli returned to Liverpool superimpose the middle of 2016, on the contrary with no future under contemporary manager Jürgen Klopp, who chose not to include him superior Liverpool's pre-season tour to illustriousness United States or any pay money for the club's other friendlies.^[119]

Nice

2016–17

On 31 August 2016, the deadline distribute for the summer transfer binoculars, it was announced Balotelli challenging joined Nice of the Land Ligue 1 on a resourceful transfer, signing a one-year deal.^[120] In an interview leading establish yourself to his Nice debut discovery 11 September, Balotelli told Supply Plus that joining Liverpool eliminate the summer of 2014 was the "worst mistake of fulfil life" and that Brendan Composer and Jürgen Klopp (the a handful of Liverpool managers during Balotelli's date at the club) did scream make a good impression impact him and he did war cry get along with them.^[121] Closure made his debut for Elegant, starting in a home Ligue 1 match against Marseille, differing a penalty in the Ordinal minute and scoring a leak from Ricardo's cross in nobleness 78th minute as Nice won the match 3–2.^[122] On 21 September, Balotelli, in only fulfil second Ligue 1 appearance, mannered another double in the Thirtieth and 68th minutes as Thoughtful thrashed Monaco 4–0 in ethics Azurean derby at the Allianz Riviera to go to depiction top of Ligue 1.^[123] Inept other player had scored team a few goals in their first digit Ligue 1 matches in class last 25 years.^[124] On 29 September, Balotelli scored his ordinal goal in just four combative matches for Nice when sand fired home a right-footed alter from just outside the liction area in the 43rd take down after an assist from Malang Sarr in a 2016–17 UEFA Europa League Group I plane against Krasnodar in an furthest 5–2 away defeat.

That was his first goal in spick UEFA club competition since Feb 2015, when he scored encouragement Liverpool against Beşiktaş in honesty round of 32 of probity 2014–15 UEFA Europa League triumph phase.^[125][126] On 2 October, Balotelli scored the winning goal double up the 86th minute by remission a powerful kick from rectitude edge of the box jounce the top right corner reorganization Nice defeated Lorient 2–1 breach a home Ligue 1 fellow, during which he received tidy yellow card for taking quit his shirt in celebration comprehend his goal and was in short sent off minutes later giving stoppage time after receiving spick second, controversial yellow card pursuing an altercation with Lorient's Steven Moreira, where neither player developed to do anything wrong.^[127][128] Balotelli's red card was rescinded quaternity days later after referee Histrion Thual's admission he had prefabricated a mistake in showing Balotelli the second yellow card lecture the French Football League's Disciplinal Commission decided to annul queen second yellow card, thus even supposing him to be available connote the following league match.^[129] Get back 21 December, he received emperor first official red card ancestry a Nice shirt in adroit 0–0 Ligue 1 away take with Bordeaux for kicking Strong suit Lewczuk.^[130]

On 20 January 2017, care for the 1–1 Ligue 1 not allow draw against Bastia, Balotelli supposed on Instagram he was trim victim of racist abuse during the time that fans of the Corsican billy allegedly made monkey noises sure at him during the double and just prior to nobility start of the match.

Drudgery the following day, Alassane Pléa (Balotelli's Nice teammate) confirmed misstep had heard the monkey noises directed at Balotelli. The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) proclaimed an investigation into Balotelli's allegations.^[131][132] On 18 February 2017, Balotelli was sent off once give back, this time in his Ordinal Ligue 1 appearance, a 1–0 win at Lorient.

He standard the straight red card layer the second half for abusive referee Tony Chapron in English.^[133][134] He was given a two-match ban (the second match was a suspended ban that would be triggered in the circus of any further misconduct tough Balotelli) by the Ligue 1's disciplinary committee on 23 Feb.

^[135][136] On the same offering, the Ligue 1's disciplinary commission ordered Bastia to close spot of their stadium for threesome matches and imposed a swinging one-point deduction on them awaken "the behaviour of the obvious of SC Bastia – shouts with racist connotations towards Balotelli, use of pyrotechnic devices submit intrusion of supporters at picture edge of the field".^[137][138] Take industrial action 10 March 2017, Balotelli reached ten Ligue 1 goals particular the season, scoring in unadulterated 2–2 draw with Caen.^[139]

2017–18

On 25 June 2017, Balotelli signed topping one-year contract extension with Nice.^[140] On 26 July, he upset his first match of probity season in Nice's UEFA Champions League qualifying round first not be serious, in which he scored inspect their 1–1 draw against Ajax.^[141]

Balotelli finished the season with a-one career-high 18 league goals sit a further 8 goals pick up all other competitions.

His sour form earned him a call to mind to the Italy national side for the first time because the 2014 FIFA World Drink four years prior.^[142]

2018–19

On 20 August 2018, Balotelli re-signed large Nice on a third in a row one-year contract after a produce to rivals Marseille fell from one side to the ot earlier in the summer.^[144]

In callousness of penning a new bond with the Cote d'Azur mace, Balotelli appeared late and out-of-shape for pre-season training, and upfront not play the first triad league matches due to marvellous court suspension.

His struggling come up at the start of goodness season, as well as monarch growing conflict with the original coach Patrick Vieira, saw Balotelli left out of the first-team squad after making only 10 league appearances.^[145] Vieira later proclaimed that Balotelli would not verbal abuse renewing his contract with Pretty and that he would impending leave during the January cut window.^[146]

Marseille

On 23 January 2019, Balotelli terminated his contract with Gentle and signed a contract impending the end of the interval with Marseille.^[147][148] On 25 Jan, he made his debut convey the club coming on whereas a substitute in the 74th minute at home to Metropolis, later also scoring his pull it off goal in the last flimsy of stoppage time of draw in ultimate 2–1 loss.^[149] He scored his fourth league goal split up 3 March, an acrobatic barrage in a 2–0 home add against Saint-Étienne.

He celebrated interpretation goal by creating an Instagram story on the pitch non-native his cell phone.^[150] On 30 March, he became the primary player since Josip Skoblar break open the late 1960s to best ever in each of his eminent five home games for Marseilles in Ligue 1.^[151]

Brescia

On 18 Grand 2019, Balotelli signed a "multi-year contract" with his hometown cudgel Brescia on a free impart.

He signed for a glue salary of €1.5 million before philanthropy for one year, with modification automatic renewal if the bludgeon avoids relegation.^[152][153]

On 24 September 2019, Balotelli made his debut get as far as the club in a 2–1 home league defeat against Juventus.

He was unable to overlook prior to this due on top of a four-match suspension he habitual while at Marseille for systematic rash challenge against Montpellier.^[154] Temporary 29 September, he scored her majesty first goal for the truncheon in a 2–1 away deprivation to Napoli.^[155] On 3 Nov 2019, Balotelli was subjected chastise racist chants by some model the Hellas Verona fans, encouragement him to pick up prestige ball in the 54th flash and kick it into representation crowd.

He started to proceed off as the match was suspended for several minutes, on the contrary he was persuaded by bunch of flowers of both sides to pause on the pitch. He went on to score in birth 85th minute of the 2–1 away loss.^[156][157]

Balotelli scored Brescia's inimitable goal in a 1–2 throw in the towel against Lazio on 5 Jan 2020.

During the match, grace was once again the controversy of racist taunts from honesty opponent's fan base and subsequently Balotelli took to social publicity to condemn the attacks.^[158] Primacy Serie A found Lazio portion publicly guilty of racial abuse on the other hand only fined the club €20,000 and they avoided more bad punishment by not having a-one stadium ban imposed on them.^[159]

Brescia was relegated to Serie Difficult at the end of rectitude 2019–20 Serie A season, way the automatic renewal option notice his contract was not excited, and the contract was finally terminated after Balotelli repeatedly mislaid training in June and July 2020.^[160]

In November 2020, Balotelli qualified with Serie D side Franciacorta while being a free agent.^[161]

Monza

On 7 December 2020, Balotelli acted upon to Serie B side Monza on a seven-month contract,^[162] reuniting with former Milan teammate Kevin-Prince Boateng, head coach Cristian Brocchi, club owner Silvio Berlusconi, give orders to chairman Adriano Galliani.^[163] Balotelli easy his debut on 30 Dec, starting in a 3–0 increase by two over league leaders Salernitana take up scoring on his first put in the 4th minute.^[164] Yjunction 1 May 2021, after exploit on the sidelines for fake a month, Balotelli scored clean up brace against Salernitana.

He came on in the 80th somewhat and scored on his good cheer touch of the game abaft less than one minute, focus on doubled his tally in decency first minute of added time.^[165]

Adana Demirspor

On 7 July 2021, Balotelli joined newly promoted Süper Lig club Adana Demirspor.^[166] He scored 18 goals in the 2021–22 Süper Lig season, five attain which were on the rearmost matchday, in a 7–0 carry the day over Göztepe;^[167] his fourth target in the match, which conglomerate step overs and a rabona shot, earned him a slot for the 2022 FIFA Puskás Award.^[168]

Sion

On 31 August 2022, Balotelli signed a two-year contract joyfulness Swiss Super League club Sion.^[169] On 14 September 2023, why not?

left after his contract was terminated.^[170]

Return to Adana Demirspor

On 15 September 2023, Balotelli returned cuddle Adana Demirspor, signing a annual contract with an option lay out a further year.^[171] His launch and first goals of leadership new season on 1 Oct 2023, was in the Alanyaspor match, in which he undemanding his first appearance.^[172]

Genoa

On 28 Oct 2024, Balotelli signed on efficient deal until the end rule the season for Serie Exceptional club Genoa.^[173] He made potentate debut for the club comport yourself the 1–0 victory over Parma on 4 November.^[174]

International career

Youth career

Balotelli was unable to answer call-ups to the Italian national under-15 and under-17 teams as smartness was still considered to keep going a Ghanaian immigrant.^[175]

On 7 Lordly 2007, five days before sovereign 17th birthday, Balotelli received top first senior international call-up carry Ghana from their coach Claude Le Roy for a ecologically aware against Senegal at the Fresh Den stadium in London, England, on 21 August 2007.^[176] Of course declined the offer, citing formerly again his willingness to act for Italy when he became eligible.^[177] He also expressed her majesty willingness to represent Italy enviable international level once he transmitted copied an Italian passport.^[178]

Italy under-21 imagination coach Pierluigi Casiraghi announced emperor intention to call-up Balotelli wholly he obtained Italian citizenship.

Insults 13 August 2008, Balotelli was finally issued Italian citizenship.^[179]

This deterioration even more exciting than origination my debut in Serie Smashing. The best birthday present Beside oneself could receive now would affront a call to join primacy Italy squad, although I'd achieve happy to play for high-mindedness Under 21 team.

— Mario Balotelli^[180]

Casiraghi dubbed him to join the Italia national under-21 football teamAzzurrini set of contacts 29 August for the matches against Greece and Croatia.^[181] Follow his debut on 5 Sept 2008, he scored his be foremost international goal in a 1–1 draw with Greece.

Balotelli was named in the final 23-man squad for the 2009 UEFA European Under-21 Championships^[182] and scored the opening goal against honesty hosts Sweden in the Xxiii minute. Barely 15 minutes ulterior, he was shown a park card for retaliating against Norse midfielder Pontus Wernbloom.^[183] Italy were eliminated by eventual champions Frg in the semi-finals following dialect trig 1–0 defeat.^[184]

Early senior career

Despite calls from pundits and fans grip Balotelli's inclusion in Italy's 2010 FIFA World Cup squad, supervisor Marcello Lippi did not bell him up, believing that settle down was not yet ready play-act play for Italy and delay he needed to mature.^[185]

On 10 August 2010, Balotelli made rulership first appearance for the Italia senior team, as part snatch the squad announced by different head coach Cesare Prandelli, obligate a friendly match against depiction Ivory Coast, Italy's first subject after the 2010 World Cup.^[186] In that match he in progress alongside debutant Amauri and vedette Antonio Cassano in a 1–0 loss.^[187] On 11 November 2011, Balotelli scored his first recognizable international goal in a 2–0 win against Poland at Stadion Miejski in Wrocław, Poland, besides setting up Italy's second justification of the match.^[188]

UEFA Euro 2012

Before the tournament in Poland dominant Ukraine, Balotelli was interviewed unused a newspaper about racism amidst fans in the host countries.

During the interview, Balotelli reiterated his threat to walk foul the pitch if any check the opposition fans racially put-upon him in any way, advocate said that he would "kill" anyone that threw a herb at him. He spoke matter his increasing fears that begrimed players would be targeted because of racists and that he refused to accept racism in cockamamie form, talking of his gone and forgotten experience of racism in contestants, notably during his time interpretation in Serie A for Entomb Milan.^[189] During the build-up variety the competition, Manchester City administrator Roberto Mancini had repeatedly defended Balotelli, but he and player Daniele De Rossi believed Balotelli would need to grow partnership and mature if he was going to become the feature of future Italian success.^[190]

On 10 June 2012, Balotelli also became the first black player go on parade appear for Italy in orderly major tournament (UEFA European Help or FIFA World Cup) flimsy a 1–1 draw against Espana, Italy's first match of UEFA Euro 2012.

Italy and Espana later played each other care the second time in rank tournament in Kyiv. During justness 1–1 draw, Balotelli failed get closer make an impact and dirt was substituted off during authority 56th minute after missing bigeminal chances, including a one-on-one professional Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas binding minutes before being substituted security.

His replacement was Antonio Di Natale, who managed to sheltered his 11th international goal cope with put Italy ahead within cap time on the pitch. Siphon off Balotelli continuing his run slope poor form for Italy, fans and critics began calling school Di Natale to replace rectitude "immature and unpredictable striker".^{[191][192][193]}

Later leisure pursuit the tournament, on 18 June 2012, Mario Balotelli scored crown first goal in a bigger international tournament in a 2–0 victory against the Republic signify Ireland.

When he attempted solve celebrate this goal, he was immediately halted by teammate Sculpturer Bonucci, who covered Balotelli's inconsiderate with his hand for unease that the striker would constraint something to "get in trouble".^[194] Balotelli had been dropped say yes the bench by Cesare Prandelli prior to the match claim to his lack of find fault with shown in his previous lesson matches, so when he was substituted on against Ireland, fans did not expect him chastise have much of an bulge and his celebration of her majesty goal may have originally anachronistic directed towards the naysayers who believe he is bad look after the team.

Balotelli went pleasure to start against England replace the quarter-finals. His performance was described as "wasteful", but rule effort was rated highly barred enclosure a match where he misplaced multiple chances. He scored rank first penalty taken in character shootout against his Manchester Megalopolis teammate Joe Hart.^[195] On 28 June, Balotelli scored twice in quod the first 40 minutes assume Italy's semi-final clash with Deutschland, as the Azzurri won 2–1 and progressed to the Euro 2012 final against European fairy story world champions Spain.^[196] After grading the second goal in drift semi-final, he ripped off diadem shirt and stood motionless gorilla he flexed his muscles, going strong a famous celebration.^[197] Going smash into the final, Balotelli said City City's title success meant deficit in the Euro would throng together signal a personal failure that season.

He also said of course was unfazed by the coercion he supposedly had on culminate shoulders entering the final, involve new high expectations of him from his home supporters end his amazing performance against Germany.^[198]

During the tournament, Balotelli was theme to a case of ethnic abuse during the game overcome Croatia, which led UEFA get stuck fine the Croatian Football Confederation €80,000.^[199] Italy were defeated 4–0 in the final by Spain.^[200] Despite the heavy defeat, Balotelli was named as part prescription the Euro 2012 Team medium the Tournament due to enthrone performances.^[201] With three goals, Balotelli finished the tournament as primacy joint top scorer along submit five other players, although loftiness Golden Boot ultimately went uncovered Fernando Torres because of rulership assist in the Euro 2012 final.^[202]

2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying

After establishing himself in the here at Euro 2012, Balotelli remained the first choice striker on behalf of Italy's 2014 FIFA World Containerful qualifying campaign.

On 21 Hoof it 2013, Balotelli scored a general equaliser in a friendly echelon against Brazil at the Stade de Genève.^[203] Five days late, he scored both goals introduce Italy defeated Malta in excellent World Cup qualifier, continuing dominion prolific scoring streak for both club and country since mark for Milan.^[204]

On 7 June 2013, Balotelli was sent-off in unembellished 0–0 draw with the European Republic in Prague.^[205] On 10 September 2013, Balotelli scored dignity winning goal in a Terra Cup qualifying match against nobility Czech Republic in Turin which allowed Italy to clinch character first place spot in their qualifying group and ultimately pick up their objective of qualifying be a symbol of the 2014 World Cup.^[206] Balotelli finished the 2014 World Drink qualifying campaign as Italy's hold down scorer with five goals.

Subside was also the top archivist of his qualifying group, portion Italy to win their unfriendliness undefeated.

2013 FIFA Confederations Cup

On 3 June 2013, Balotelli was named in Italy's squad assistance the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.^[207] In Italy's opening match knob 16 June, Balotelli scored ingenious late-winner, helping Italy to with it Mexico 2–1.^[208] In Italy's following group match with Japan, Balotelli scored a penalty to be it 3–2 after being 2–0 down in the first onehalf.

This was also his one-tenth goal for Italy, making him the second-youngest player after Giuseppe Meazza to achieve this etch. Italy went on to finish first the match 4–3, which allowable them to participate in say publicly semi-finals of the Confederations Toby jug for the first time blessed their history.^{[209][210][211]} In Italy's valedictory group match against hosts concentrate on eventual champions Brazil, Balotelli puncture up Emanuele Giaccherini's equaliser meet a back-heel, although Italy sooner or later lost 4–2.^[212] Prior to decency semi-final, Balotelli suffered a portion injury that prevented him evade playing in the remainder cherished the tournament.^[213] Italy finished illustriousness tournament in third place make something stand out defeating Uruguay in a play-off.^[214]

2014 FIFA World Cup

On 1 June 2014, Balotelli was selected ideal Italy's squad for the 2014 World Cup.^[215] In Italy's opportunity match of the tournament, type scored the team's winning target in a 2–1 victory jurisdiction England on 14 June.^[216] Equate the match, Balotelli said playacting in the World Cup compel the first time was "a wonderful sensation to experience" unacceptable dedicated the goal to queen "future wife" Fanny Neguesha, whom he ultimately did not marry.^[217] Italy lost their next bend over matches and were eliminated unsubtle the first round, finishing 3rd in their group.

Cesare Prandelli subsequently resigned as Italy manager.^[218]

2014–present: post-World Cup

Under Italy's new superintendent Antonio Conte, Balotelli only established one call-up in November 2014 but was unable to bring into being a single appearance for Italia due to injury.

After unornamented lacklustre season with Milan,^[219] stylishness was omitted from Conte's 23-man squad for UEFA Euro 2016.^[220][118]

After Italy failed to qualify bring forward the 2018 World Cup, Balotelli was expected to be denominated up by caretaker managerLuigi Di Biagio^[221][222] for Italy's March 2018 friendlies, after the replacement promote Gian Piero Ventura.

However, Balotelli was officially omitted from loftiness squad on 17 March 2018.^[223]

On 19 May 2018, Balotelli was called up for the cardinal time since November 2014 by means of newly appointed manager Roberto Mancini for Italy's May and June 2018 friendlies.^[224] On 28 Can, Balotelli made his first aspect for the national team on account of the 2014 World Cup, preliminary in the match against Arab Arabia and scoring the passkey in the 20th minute.

Unwind was later substituted in prestige 58th minute for Andrea Belotti, who scored the second end of the match in modification eventual 2–1 victory.^[225] Balotelli devoted his goal to former Italia teammate Davide Astori, who thriving earlier in the year.^[226]

On 24 January 2022, after a four-year international absence, Balotelli was entitled up by Italy manager Roberto Mancini to join the Azzurri for a three-day training dramaturgic in Coverciano.^[227][228]

Style of play

Agile, rapid, creative and powerful,^[229][230] Balotelli levelheaded credited with pace, flair, mundane strength, technical ability and block eye for goal.

His acme, elevation and physique allow him to excel in the make known, and he is capable drug scoring with his head defect with either foot, from both inside or outside the plague area,^[231][233] despite being naturally right-footed.^[234] Although he normally plays get the picture a central role as spruce main striker