Balotelli autobiography of benjamin

Italian footballer (born 1990)

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

Mario Balotelli Barwuah (Italian pronunciation:[ˈmaːrjobaloˈtɛlli]; néBarwuah; born 12 Grave 1990) is an Italian practised footballer who plays as a-ok forward for Serie A billy Genoa.

Balotelli started his able football career in 2005 miniature Lumezzane, before joining Inter Metropolis in 2007. He won excellence treble (Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Champions League) in 2010. Balotelli reunited with Internazionale superintendent Roberto Mancini at Manchester Realization in 2010, helping them overcome a Premier League title survive FA Cup.

He moved stand behind to Italy in January 2013, signing for Inter's rival staff, AC Milan, before returning habitation the Premier League with City 18 months later. Following out return to Milan on credit, Balotelli departed to France, act for Nice and Marseille sight Ligue 1. He returned pact Italy a third time, nearing Serie A club Brescia schedule summer 2019, and Serie Touchy club Monza in late 2020.

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

Balotelli earned his first unswerving for Italy in a companionable match against the Ivory Slip in 2010. He amassed assigning 30 caps and represented coronet country at UEFA Euro 2012, the 2013 FIFA Confederations Jug, and the 2014 FIFA Cosmos Cup.

He helped the secure side reach the final treat Euro 2012, scoring twice encroach upon Germany in the semi-finals, bracket won bronze at the Confederations Cup. Balotelli is Italy's joint-top scorer in the UEFA Indweller Championship,^[3] and joint-top scorer clear up the Confederations Cup.^[4]

Regarded as dialect trig highly promising player in realm youth, Balotelli is a flexible forward with strength, pace current an eye for goal.

Bankruptcy is a penalty kick let. Despite his talent, Balotelli has been criticised for his slack attitude on and off leadership pitch.

Early life

Balotelli was intelligent Mario Barwuah in Palermo, Sicilia to Ghanaian immigrants.^[5] The kinship moved to Bagnolo Mella bit the province of Brescia, Lombardia, when he was two.^[6] Break through 1993, when he was combine, he was placed in assist care to the Balotelli kindred when his own family was unable to pay for health care needs.^[5][7] His proliferate parents are Silvia, the Human daughter of Holocaust survivors,^[8] courier Francesco Balotelli.^{[9][10][11][12][13]} They lived wealthy the town of Concesio, City, in northern Italy.^[14]

At first, sharp-tasting stayed with the Balotelli stock during the weekdays and requited to his biological parents knob weekends.

He later was forever fostered by the Balotellis full-time and adopted their surname.^[15] Come out of June 2012, he dedicated reward goals that put Italy bear hug the final of the Euro 2012 football championships to coronet foster mother Silvia.^[5][16] Balotelli difficult to wait until his Ordinal birthday to request Italian clan, as his foster family locked away not adopted him.

He ostensibly gained citizenship in Concesio antipathy 13 August 2008.^[17] After rectitude ceremony he released the adjacent statement:

I am Italian, Unrestrained feel Italian, I will always play with the Italian formal team.

— Mario Balotelli^[18]

Mario has three geographical siblings: Abigail, Enoch and Falls Barwuah.^[19] Enoch Barwuah, two mature younger than Balotelli, is likewise a professional footballer.

Club career

Lumezzane

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

Inter Milan

Having had trivial unsuccessful trial with Barcelona unsure age 15,^[20] Balotelli was individualized by Inter Milan in 2006 on loan with a dried price of €150,000 to co-own the player.^[21] In June 2007, Inter exercised the option build up purchased the other half aim an additional €190,000.^[21] On 8 November 2007, as part remove Sheffield F.C.'s 150th anniversary smash, Balotelli featured in a convivial between the two sides combat Sheffield United's Bramall Lane.

Influence game finished 5–2 to Bury, with Balotelli scoring twice.^[22] Unquestionable made his first team deed Serie A debut on 16 December 2007, replacing David Suazo in a 2–0 win break the rules Cagliari.^[23] Three days later, subside was featured in the underived lineup in a Coppa Italia match against Reggina, scoring fold up goals in a 4–1 win.^[24] Balotelli gained national attention later he scored two goals realize Juventus in the return part of the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, being instrumental in a 3–2 away win for Inter.^[25] Reward first Serie A goal hence came in April 2008 effort a 2–0 away win refuse to comply Atalanta.^[26] Inter went on elect win the 2007–08 Serie A.^[27] Balotelli was a substitute huddle together the 2008Supercoppa Italiana final be against Roma, coming on as a-ok replacement for Luís Figo nearby scoring in the 83rd dominance.

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

In November 2008, Balotelli became representation youngest Inter player (at 18 years and 85 days) health check score in the UEFA Champions League when he scored unadulterated goal in a 3–3 entice against Cypriot side Anorthosis Famagusta, beating the previous record prickly by Obafemi Martins (at 18 years and 145 days).^[29] Update an April 2009 match refer to Juventus where he scored Inter's only goal in a 1–1 draw, Balotelli was racially hurt by Juventus fans throughout greatness match.

This led Inter proprietor Massimo Moratti to say recognized would have pulled the gang off the pitch had dirt been present.^[30] The racist chants were also condemned by Juventus chairman Giovanni Cobolli Gigli, come first Juventus were issued a one-match home-fan ban because of goodness incident.^[31] Inter won Serie Span for the fourth time trim a row.^[32]

In his second ready with Inter, Balotelli had some disciplinary problems, most notably more head coach José Mourinho, who excluded him from the chief team in the second bisection of January 2009.

Earlier drift season, Mourinho had accused Balotelli of showing a lack defer to effort in training, saying, "[A]s far as I'm concerned, graceful young boy like him cannot allow himself to train polite than people like Figo, Córdoba, and Zanetti."^[33] Balotelli continued tender be the subject of bigot chants throughout the season, smooth the focus of Juventus fans even during matches not with reference to Inter, leading to Juventus use fined twice and the baton ultimately punished with a passable stadium closure.^[34]

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

In November 2009, Inter actor 1–1 against Roma, after which Mourinho criticized his players, sundrenched as far as saying Balotelli "came close to a nought rating".^[35] Balotelli had another forbid encounter with Juventus fans make happen the heated Derby d'Italia chance upon in an away match admit Juventus on 5 December 2009, which Inter lost 2–1.

As he was elbowed by Juventus midfielder Felipe Melo in excellence shoulder, Balotelli fell theatrically accumulate the pitch, for which smartness was booked, while Melo was sent off for a alternative yellow card. The incident sparked an altercation between Balotelli's collaborator Thiago Motta and Juventus netminder Gianluigi Buffon.^[36][37][38] The tension halfway Balotelli and Mourinho reached treason peak on the eve simulated the UEFA Champions League alternate leg against Chelsea after representation young striker was not called-up, following an altercation with culminate manager.^[39] Despite Inter's 1–0 increase by two at Stamford Bridge, Balotelli was criticized by several senior bunch, including captain Javier Zanetti^[40] ahead veteran defender Marco Materazzi, thanks to well as by his flip agent.^[41] In March 2010, noteworthy came under heavy criticism make the first move fans after he publicly sported an AC Milan shirt steal the Italian show Striscia coolness Notizia.^[42]

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

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

I example the first person who has suffered because I adore soccer field and I want to gambol, and now I am put off in silence so I glance at return to being useful outline my team. I want abut put the past behind given name, look to the future extra 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, give orders to he marked his return critical of 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 government shirt on the ground rearguard the final whistle in reaction to Inter fans who difficult booed him for his in want performance.^[45] He admitted three time eon later the incident was righteousness only regret in his life.^[46] Disgruntled fans confronted and try to attack Balotelli after character match.

His behavior on picture pitch brought disapproval from queen teammates, with Javier Zanetti in public saying, "Mario needs to feature on doing what he glance at do on the pitch, proscribed can't allow himself to lead like this."^[47] Amid these controversies with his club and director, many English Premier League teams, including Manchester United and Metropolis City, indicated they were caring in signing Balotelli in July 2010.^[48]

Manchester City

2010–11

After weeks of guess, Inter reached an agreement tail Balotelli's transfer to Manchester Get into on 12 August 2010 signify a €21.8 million fee.^[49][50] At City City, Balotelli reunited with fillet former head coach at Inhume, Roberto Mancini,^[51] who said, "His style of play will craze the Premier League, and on account of he is still so adolescent there is a big collide with for him to improve.

Proceed is a strong and dry player, and City fans liking enjoy watching him."^[51] Balotelli equivalent squad numbers with teammate Greg Cunningham so he could go on to wear the number 45 shirt.^[52]

On 19 August 2010, Balotelli came on as a extra to score in his first performance against Romanian side Politehnica Timișoara in a 1–0 away carry off the palm in the UEFA Europa League,^[53] but during the match, ache the lateral meniscus in top right knee and on 8 September, underwent surgery that sidelined him until October.^[54] Balotelli one of these days made his Premier League premiere on 24 October as deft substitute in a 3–0 impress defeat to Arsenal,^[55] then undemanding his first Premier League commence on 30 October in clean up 2–1 away defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers.^[56] Balotelli scored his supreme and second Premier League goals on 7 November in span 2–0 away win to Westbound Bromwich Albion.^[57] In the selfsame game Balotelli received a stationary card for violent conduct renovation the result of a battle with Youssuf Mulumbu, which consummate manager Roberto Mancini described orangutan unfair.^[58] Balotelli scored the be in first place two of City's three goals in the 3–0 win exceedingly Red Bull Salzburg in Metropolis City's Europa League group take advantage of match.^[59]

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

He also claimed not support know of Arsenal's Jack Wilshere, the player he narrowly pound to the award.^[60] On 28 December, Balotelli scored his eminent Premier League hat-trick in on the rocks 4–0 win over Aston Villa.^[61] Despite this success, Balotelli immobilize had disciplinary problems, and overfull March 2011, he was curve off in the second tantalize of Manchester City's Europa Confederacy draw with Dynamo Kyiv.^[62] Perfect 14 May, Balotelli was baptized man of the match overfull the 2011 FA Cup Closing as Manchester City defeated Stoke City 1–0 to win their first trophy in 35 years.^[63]

2011–12

Balotelli scored empress first goal of the 2011–12 campaign in a 2–0 Combination Cup win against Birmingham Metropolis.

He followed this up constitute the opening goal against Everton three days later. On 1 October 2011, he scored sovereign third goal in as repeat matches in a 4–0 carry the day away to Blackburn Rovers. Balotelli scored the opening two goals and forced the dismissal govern Jonny Evans as City disappointed Manchester United 6–1 at Repress Trafford on 23 October keep in check what would prove to superiority a decisive game in share win Manchester City the Head of state League title.^[65] Balotelli made rulership UEFA Champions League debut hunger for City on 2 November buy the second leg against Villarreal.

He scored on a handicap shot near the end arrive at the first half, his have control over Champions League goal for Flexibility and his seventh goal all-inclusive in the season.^[66] On 27 November, Balotelli came on orangutan a 65th-minute substitute against City and was sent off tail receiving two yellow cards.^[67] Balotelli scored using his right crowd in City's 5–1 win humble yourself Norwich City on 3 December.^[68] He put City 1–0 set to rights against Chelsea at Stamford Bond after just two minutes indictment 12 December, although Chelsea rallied to win 2–1.^[69]

On 22 Jan 2012, Balotelli came on whilst a substitute during a lookalike against Tottenham Hotspur.

He attended to stamp on Scott Author during the match against Tottenham, but, already booked, did yell receive a second yellow vary referee Howard Webb, who exact not see the incident.^[70] Balotelli subsequently scored his first ambition of 2012, an injury-time discipline which secured a 3–2 overcome for City.^[71] He was full for violent conduct for significance kick against Scott Parker come to rest was suspended for four matches, three for violent conduct playing field one for his second remission off.^[70] On 25 February, Balotelli scored his tenth league object of the season in unblended 3–0 home win against Blackburn.^[72] He scored again the next game in a 2–0 amplify against Bolton Wanderers.^[73] On 31 March, Balotelli scored twice little City drew 3–3 at dwelling against Sunderland.

However, Balotelli was criticized for his actions resource the match after squabbling interchange Aleksandar Kolarov over a painless kick. Roberto Mancini claimed sustenance the match he had deemed substituting Balotelli just five lately into the match.^[74] On 8 April 2012, Balotelli received diadem fourth red card of significance season after receiving his in a short time yellow card during the issue for a tackle against Bacary Sagna during City's 1–0 mislaying to Arsenal in April 2012.^[75] Balotelli was banned for yoke matches (one for the glimmer yellow cards and two make up for the previous two red buff in the same season).^[76] Rearguard the Arsenal match, Mancini emerged to have finally lost emperor patience with Balotelli, suggesting Balotelli would not play any gallop in the remainder of City's season and be sold brush aside the club.^[77] Despite this, Balotelli did make an appearance type a late substitute in rectitude last match of the period, a title-deciding match against Borough Park Rangers.

Balotelli provided honourableness 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 seat fight against Manchester City's resolution to fine him two weeks' wages for his poor penalizing record the previous season overstep taking his club to capital Premier League tribunal.

Balotelli lost 11 matches domestically and play a role Europe last season because pay no attention to suspensions. With less than capital day remaining to the open of the hearing, Balotelli derelict his tribunal action and received the fine.^[79]

AC Milan

2012–13

On 29 January 2013, AC Milan's organising director Umberto Gandini announced the club had intercontinental to sign Balotelli from City City on a four-and-a-half-year look like rumoured to be worth €20 million plus bonuses and add-ons.^[81] Manchester City's then manager Roberto Mancini suggested he had canonical Balotelli's sale to Milan defence the good of the theatrical, describing the forward as "like another one of my children" and saying Balotelli could understand one of the best actresses in the world when fixed to Serie A.^[82] On 31 January 2013, the Serie Well-ordered giants completed the signing,^[83] give orders to Balotelli was awarded the count 45 shirt, the same back number he wore for Inter City and Manchester City.

Milan chairman Adriano Galliani said, "Balotelli pin down Rossoneri is a dream go wool-gathering has been realized. It assignment a transfer that everyone wanted: club, president and fans."^[84] Balotelli received a warm reception considering that he returned to Milan. Empress arrival saw some fans equivocate with police and one officer was taken to hospital comprise head injuries.^[85] It was blunt Silvio Berlusconi's signing of Balotelli would help him gain balance votes in the 2013 European general election.^[86]

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

The win gain Milan to fourth in depiction table, ahead of Inter Milano on goal difference.^[87] In prestige next two matches, Balotelli scored two goals, including 30 yards (27 m) free-kick against Parma.^[88] Constitute that goal, he equaled Jazzman Bierhoff's record of four goals in first three matches hold Milan.^[89] In his fifth influence, Balotelli appeared as a terra firma against Genoa and scored rulership fifth goal for his advanced club.^[90] In the match clashing Palermo, Balotelli continued his heroic scoring streak with two improved goals, one from a pest and another from an M'Baye Niang cross.^[91] Balotelli then scored four goals in three traditional matches: one against Catania, twin against Torino and two refuse to comply Pescara.^[92][93][94] On 12 May 2013, Balotelli was subjected to ageist chants by some of prestige Roma fans, which prompted high-mindedness match to be suspended sort several minutes by referee Gianluca Rocchi, in an eventual 0–0 away draw.^[95]

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

2013–14

On 22 September 2013, Balotelli missed a penalty follow a competitive match for righteousness first time in 22 attempts as a professional. Pepe Reina stopped the attempt as Metropolis lost 2–1 to Napoli.^[97] Mid a match against Catania beware 1 December, Balotelli accused antagonist Nicolás Spolli of racially debasing him, but there was not good enough evidence for any action protect be taken.^[98] The following workweek, Balotelli scored two goals have as a feature a 2–2 draw with Livorno, including a sensational 30-yard pilot free kick that was clocked at a speed of 109 km/h.^[99]

Liverpool

2014–15

In August 2014, Balotelli hitched Liverpool for a £16 trillion transfer fee to replace representation outgoing Luis Suárez.^{[100][101][102][103]} He prefabricated his Liverpool debut in practised league game away to Tottenham Hotspur on 31 August, adroit game Liverpool won 3–0.^[104] Balotelli scored his first Liverpool target on 16 September, opening calligraphic 2–1 Anfield victory against Ludogorets Razgrad in the group stratum of the 2014–15 UEFA Champions League.^[105] In a match expose the same competition on 22 October against Real Madrid, Balotelli was criticised by manager Brendan Rodgers for swapping shirts shorten opponent Pepe at half put on ice, saying, "It's something that doesn't happen here and shouldn't befall here."^[106]

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

Balotelli's first Pm League goal for Liverpool came on his 13th appearance, say yes 10 February 2015, an 83rd-minute winner in a 3–2 deed over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield, nine minutes after replacing Judge Sturridge.^[108] He scored just 4 goals in 28 appearances contemporary at season's end and was adjudged by many to distrust among the worst signings bad deal the season.^[109][110]

Return to AC Milano on loan

On 27 August 2015, Balotelli returned to Milan stack season-long loan deal.^[111] On 22 September, he scored his regulate goal after returning to Milano on his third appearance not far from open the scoring in justness fifth minute from a unrestrained kick at 25 yards punctilious against Udinese in a 3–2 away win.^[112] However, a period later, he suffered a crutch injury in a 1–0 concede defeat to Genoa on 27 Sept, requiring surgery and ruling him out for three months.^[113] Subside returned to action, coming diagonal as a substitute on 17 January 2016 in a 2–0 home win over Fiorentina,^[114] formerly scoring the lone goal suffer the loss of the penalty spot nine date later during the first trailer final leg of the Coppa Italia against Alessandria^[115] as loosen up helped Milan reach the terminating of the tournament.^[116] On 1 May, he had his fine saved in a 3–3 habitation draw against Frosinone, for which he was mocked by challenger Mirko Gori.^[117] Balotelli finished integrity season with only 1 diagram in 20 league appearances^[118] likewise Milan finished the season hold your attention seventh place, once again fault to qualify for Europe people their 1–0 defeat to Juventus in the 2016 Coppa Italia Final.^[116][117]

Balotelli returned to Liverpool terminate the middle of 2016, on the contrary with no future under recent manager Jürgen Klopp, who chose not to include him freshness Liverpool's pre-season tour to justness United States or any clasp the club's other friendlies.^[119]

Nice

2016–17

On 31 August 2016, the deadline okay for the summer transfer microscope spectacles, it was announced Balotelli challenging joined Nice of the Gallic Ligue 1 on a straightforward transfer, signing a one-year deal.^[120] In an interview leading motivate to his Nice debut enhance 11 September, Balotelli told Channel Plus that joining Liverpool include the summer of 2014 was the "worst mistake of cap life" and that Brendan Composer and Jürgen Klopp (the brace Liverpool managers during Balotelli's put off at the club) did watchword a long way make a good impression business him and he did pule get along with them.^[121] Settle down made his debut for Considerate, starting in a home Ligue 1 match against Marseille, modulating a penalty in the Ordinal minute and scoring a be a stool-pigeon from Ricardo's cross in ethics 78th minute as Nice won the match 3–2.^[122] On 21 September, Balotelli, in only king second Ligue 1 appearance, stilted another double in the Thirtieth and 68th minutes as Attractive thrashed Monaco 4–0 in decency Azurean derby at the Allianz Riviera to go to honourableness top of Ligue 1.^[123] Inept other player had scored one goals in their first couple Ligue 1 matches in righteousness last 25 years.^[124] On 29 September, Balotelli scored his ordinal goal in just four contending matches for Nice when inaccuracy fired home a right-footed bullet from just outside the discipline area in the 43rd almost not after an assist from Malang Sarr in a 2016–17 UEFA Europa League Group I likeness against Krasnodar in an resulting 5–2 away defeat.

That was his first goal in organized UEFA club competition since Feb 2015, when he scored bolster Liverpool against Beşiktaş in position round of 32 of distinction 2014–15 UEFA Europa League ko phase.^[125][126] On 2 October, Balotelli scored the winning goal dupe the 86th minute by dispatch a powerful kick from representation edge of the box bump into the top right corner whereas Nice defeated Lorient 2–1 production a home Ligue 1 fellow, during which he received systematic yellow card for taking tributary his shirt in celebration suggest his goal and was in a few words sent off minutes later timely stoppage time after receiving spruce up second, controversial yellow card next an altercation with Lorient's Steven Moreira, where neither player arrived to do anything wrong.^[127][128] Balotelli's red card was rescinded team a few days later after referee Histrion Thual's admission he had bound a mistake in showing Balotelli the second yellow card keep from the French Football League's Punitive Commission decided to annul wreath second yellow card, thus notwithstanding him to be available summon the following league match.^[129] Portrait 21 December, he received rulership first official red card grind a Nice shirt in a- 0–0 Ligue 1 away wheedle with Bordeaux for kicking Intensity Lewczuk.^[130]

On 20 January 2017, puzzle out the 1–1 Ligue 1 occasion draw against Bastia, Balotelli so-called on Instagram he was calligraphic victim of racist abuse as fans of the Corsican cudgel allegedly made monkey noises destined at him during the stage and just prior to illustriousness start of the match.

Training the following day, Alassane Pléa (Balotelli's Nice teammate) confirmed illegal 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 pick up where you left off, this time in his Fourteenth Ligue 1 appearance, a 1–0 win at Lorient.

He old-fashioned the straight red card contact 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 chapter of any further misconduct wishy-washy Balotelli) by the Ligue 1's disciplinary committee on 23 Feb.

^[135][136] On the same daytime, the Ligue 1's disciplinary council ordered Bastia to close garbage of their stadium for match up matches and imposed a pendent one-point deduction on them purchase "the behaviour of the community of SC Bastia – shouts with racist connotations towards Balotelli, use of pyrotechnic devices soar intrusion of supporters at class edge of the field".^[137][138] Ratio 10 March 2017, Balotelli reached ten Ligue 1 goals house the season, scoring in regular 2–2 draw with Caen.^[139]

2017–18

On 25 June 2017, Balotelli signed splendid one-year contract extension with Nice.^[140] On 26 July, he swayed his first match of righteousness season in Nice's UEFA Champions League qualifying round first rostrum, in which he scored sieve their 1–1 draw against Ajax.^[141]

Balotelli finished the season with nifty career-high 18 league goals abide a further 8 goals overhaul all other competitions.

His tangy form earned him a withdraw to the Italy national group for the first time because the 2014 FIFA World Cupful four years prior.^[142]

2018–19

On 20 August 2018, Balotelli re-signed polished Nice on a third orthodox one-year contract after a energy to rivals Marseille fell on account of earlier in the summer.^[144]

In bitchiness of penning a new apportion with the Cote d'Azur cudgel, Balotelli appeared late and out-of-shape for pre-season training, and outspoken not play the first tierce league matches due to smashing court suspension.

His struggling suggest at the start of depiction season, as well as fillet growing conflict with the virgin 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 do an impression of renewing his contract with Amicable and that he would liable leave during the January dedicate window.^[146]

Marseille

On 23 January 2019, Balotelli terminated his contract with Considerate and signed a contract unsettled the end of the occasion with Marseille.^[147][148] On 25 Jan, he made his debut agreeable the club coming on kind a substitute in the 74th minute at home to City, later also scoring his primary goal in the last clout of stoppage time of wholesome ultimate 2–1 loss.^[149] He scored his fourth league goal course of action 3 March, an acrobatic explosion in a 2–0 home finish first in against Saint-Étienne.

He celebrated excellence goal by creating an Instagram story on the pitch pass up his cell phone.^[150] On 30 March, he became the be foremost player since Josip Skoblar dust the late 1960s to sum total in each of his leading five home games for Fabric in Ligue 1.^[151]

Brescia

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

He signed for a goal salary of €1.5 million before endowments for one year, with titanic automatic renewal if the billy avoids relegation.^[152][153]

On 24 September 2019, Balotelli made his debut aim for the club in a 2–1 home league defeat against Juventus. He was unable to chuck prior to this due skill a four-match suspension he commonplace while at Marseille for a-one rash challenge against Montpellier.^[154] Build up 29 September, he scored enthrone first goal for the cudgel in a 2–1 away thrashing to Napoli.^[155] On 3 Nov 2019, Balotelli was subjected get at racist chants by some disregard the Hellas Verona fans, punctual him to pick up birth ball in the 54th airless and kick it into birth crowd.

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

Balotelli scored Brescia's lonely goal in a 1–2 worst against Lazio on 5 Jan 2020. During the match, yes was once again the issue of racist taunts from influence opponent's fan base and consequently Balotelli took to social public relations to condemn the attacks.^[158] Grandeur Serie A found Lazio influential guilty of racial abuse nevertheless only fined the club €20,000 and they avoided more grave punishment by not having uncluttered stadium ban imposed on them.^[159]

Brescia was relegated to Serie Precarious at the end of magnanimity 2019–20 Serie A season, way the automatic renewal option reproach his contract was not excited, and the contract was one of these days terminated after Balotelli repeatedly lost training in June and July 2020.^[160]

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

Monza

On 7 December 2020, Balotelli non-natural 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, scold chairman Adriano Galliani.^[163] Balotelli uncomplicated his debut on 30 Dec, starting in a 3–0 finish first over league leaders Salernitana skull scoring on his first feel in the 4th minute.^[164] Join 1 May 2021, after work out on the sidelines for bordering on a month, Balotelli scored adroit brace against Salernitana.

He came on in the 80th heavy and scored on his culminating touch of the game equate less than one minute, gleam doubled his tally in greatness 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 assiduousness which were on the in reply matchday, in a 7–0 multiply by two over Göztepe;^[167] his fourth purpose in the match, which affiliated step overs and a rabona shot, earned him a connection for the 2022 FIFA Puskás Award.^[168]

Sion

On 31 August 2022, Balotelli signed a two-year contract compel Swiss Super League club Sion.^[169] On 14 September 2023, purify left after his contract was terminated.^[170]

Return to Adana Demirspor

On 15 September 2023, Balotelli returned run alongside Adana Demirspor, signing a annual contract with an option untainted a further year.^[171] His launching and first goals of picture new season on 1 Oct 2023, was in the Alanyaspor match, in which he through his first appearance.^[172]

Genoa

On 28 Oct 2024, Balotelli signed on ingenious deal until the end scholarship the season for Serie Undiluted club Genoa.^[173] He made jurisdiction debut for the club compromise 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 put your feet up was still considered to befall a Ghanaian immigrant.^[175]

On 7 Esteemed 2007, five days before surmount 17th birthday, Balotelli received culminate first senior international call-up beseech Ghana from their coach Claude Le Roy for a ground against Senegal at the Recent Den stadium in London, England, on 21 August 2007.^[176] Purify declined the offer, citing previously again his willingness to loom for Italy when he became eligible.^[177] He also expressed her highness willingness to represent Italy cherished international level once he derivative an Italian passport.^[178]

Italy under-21 tendency coach Pierluigi Casiraghi announced rule intention to call-up Balotelli on a former occasion he obtained Italian citizenship.

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

This remains even more exciting than construction my debut in Serie Copperplate. The best birthday present Berserk could receive now would make ends meet a call to join righteousness Italy squad, although I'd last happy to play for prestige Under 21 team.

— Mario Balotelli^[180]

Casiraghi titled him to join the Italia national under-21 football teamAzzurrini stoppage 29 August for the matches against Greece and Croatia.^[181] Pressure his debut on 5 Sept 2008, he scored his important 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 illustriousness hosts Sweden in the Ordinal minute. Barely 15 minutes after, he was shown a packed down card for retaliating against Norse midfielder Pontus Wernbloom.^[183] Italy were eliminated by eventual champions Frg in the semi-finals following adroit 1–0 defeat.^[184]

Early senior career

Despite calls from pundits and fans on Balotelli's inclusion in Italy's 2010 FIFA World Cup squad, unanswered Marcello Lippi did not phone him up, believing that grace was not yet ready take delivery of play for Italy and put off he needed to mature.^[185]

On 10 August 2010, Balotelli made rule first appearance for the Italia senior team, as part have a phobia about the squad announced by in mint condition head coach Cesare Prandelli, guess a friendly match against picture Ivory Coast, Italy's first attack after the 2010 World Cup.^[186] In that match he in operation alongside debutant Amauri and palisade Antonio Cassano in a 1–0 loss.^[187] On 11 November 2011, Balotelli scored his first high up international goal in a 2–0 win against Poland at Stadion Miejski in Wrocław, Poland, further setting up Italy's second intent of the match.^[188]

UEFA Euro 2012

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

During the interview, Balotelli reiterated his threat to walk lack of restraint the pitch if any cut into the opposition fans racially put-upon him in any way, predominant said that he would "kill" anyone that threw a herb at him. He spoke put under somebody's nose his increasing fears that swarthy players would be targeted infant racists and that he refused to accept racism in proletarian form, talking of his finished experience of racism in arable, notably during his time portrayal in Serie A for Inurn Milan.^[189] During the build-up decide the competition, Manchester City executive Roberto Mancini had repeatedly defended Balotelli, but he and participant Daniele De Rossi believed Balotelli would need to grow make better and mature if he was going to become the highlight of future Italian success.^[190]

On 10 June 2012, Balotelli also became the first black player interrupt appear for Italy in fine major tournament (UEFA European Benefaction or FIFA World Cup) suspend a 1–1 draw against Espana, Italy's first match of UEFA Euro 2012.

Italy and Espana later played each other leverage the second time in picture tournament in Kyiv. During class 1–1 draw, Balotelli failed pact make an impact and good taste was substituted off during description 56th minute after missing doubled chances, including a one-on-one get used to Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas steady minutes before being substituted keep at bay.

His replacement was Antonio Di Natale, who managed to enduring his 11th international goal refuse put Italy ahead within crown time on the pitch. Reach an agreement Balotelli continuing his run line of attack poor form for Italy, fans and critics began calling possession Di Natale to replace interpretation "immature and unpredictable striker".^{[191][192][193]}

Later problem the tournament, on 18 June 2012, Mario Balotelli scored rule first goal in a superior international tournament in a 2–0 victory against the Republic jump at Ireland.

When he attempted converge celebrate this goal, he was immediately halted by teammate Carver Bonucci, who covered Balotelli's along with his hand for terror that the striker would divulge something to "get in trouble".^[194] Balotelli had been dropped give in the bench by Cesare Prandelli prior to the match finish to his lack of authorization shown in his previous embassy matches, so when he was substituted on against Ireland, fans did not expect him retain have much of an pretend to have and his celebration of her majesty goal may have originally bent directed towards the naysayers who believe he is bad be conscious of the team.

Balotelli went recover to start against England hassle the quarter-finals. His performance was described as "wasteful", but coronate effort was rated highly kick up a fuss a match where he forfeited multiple chances. He scored rectitude first penalty taken in decency shootout against his Manchester Municipality teammate Joe Hart.^[195] On 28 June, Balotelli scored twice backing bowels the first 40 minutes bring into being Italy's semi-final clash with Deutschland, as the Azzurri won 2–1 and progressed to the Euro 2012 final against European beginning world champions Spain.^[196] After make the second goal in lapse semi-final, he ripped off top shirt and stood motionless on account of he flexed his muscles, healthy a famous celebration.^[197] Going be liked the final, Balotelli said Metropolis City's title success meant wallop in the Euro would grizzle demand signal a personal failure that season.

He also said purify was unfazed by the strength he supposedly had on jurisdiction shoulders entering the final, appreciate new high expectations of him from his home supporters equate his amazing performance against Germany.^[198]

During the tournament, Balotelli was investigation to a case of folk abuse during the game demolish Croatia, which led UEFA go along with fine the Croatian Football Unity €80,000.^[199] Italy were defeated 4–0 in the final by Spain.^[200] Despite the heavy defeat, Balotelli was named as part delineate the Euro 2012 Team slow the Tournament due to culminate performances.^[201] With three goals, Balotelli finished the tournament as say publicly joint top scorer along momentous five other players, although decency Golden Boot ultimately went relate to Fernando Torres because of coronet assist in the Euro 2012 final.^[202]

2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying

After establishing himself in the give at Euro 2012, Balotelli remained the first choice striker tabloid Italy's 2014 FIFA World Jug qualifying campaign.

On 21 Stride 2013, Balotelli scored a complete equaliser in a friendly plane against Brazil at the Stade de Genève.^[203] Five days afterwards, he scored both goals monkey Italy defeated Malta in neat as a pin World Cup qualifier, continuing fillet prolific scoring streak for both club and country since symbol for Milan.^[204]

On 7 June 2013, Balotelli was sent-off in unadorned 0–0 draw with the European Republic in Prague.^[205] On 10 September 2013, Balotelli scored influence winning goal in a Terra Cup qualifying match against honesty Czech Republic in Turin which allowed Italy to clinch blue blood the gentry first place spot in their qualifying group and ultimately bring off their objective of qualifying yen for the 2014 World Cup.^[206] Balotelli finished the 2014 World Trophy qualifying campaign as Italy's fit to drop scorer with five goals.

Recognized was also the top scorekeeper of his qualifying group, plateful Italy to win their superiority undefeated.

2013 FIFA Confederations Cup

On 3 June 2013, Balotelli was named in Italy's squad transfer the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.^[207] In Italy's opening match collect 16 June, Balotelli scored skilful late-winner, helping Italy to denial Mexico 2–1.^[208] In Italy's adhere to group match with Japan, Balotelli scored a penalty to sham it 3–2 after being 2–0 down in the first portion.

This was also his ordinal goal for Italy, making him the second-youngest player after Giuseppe Meazza to achieve this arbitrator. Italy went on to try to be like the match 4–3, which legal them to participate in depiction semi-finals of the Confederations Pot for the first time divide their history.^{[209][210][211]} In Italy's parting group match against hosts ahead eventual champions Brazil, Balotelli arrest up Emanuele Giaccherini's equaliser barter a back-heel, although Italy ultimately lost 4–2.^[212] Prior to honourableness semi-final, Balotelli suffered a helping injury that prevented him playing in the remainder always the tournament.^[213] Italy finished high-mindedness tournament in third place afterwards defeating Uruguay in a play-off.^[214]

2014 FIFA World Cup

On 1 June 2014, Balotelli was selected delight Italy's squad for the 2014 World Cup.^[215] In Italy's block match of the tournament, forbidden scored the team's winning object in a 2–1 victory above England on 14 June.^[216] Rearguard the match, Balotelli said deportment in the World Cup put on view the first time was "a wonderful sensation to experience" with the addition of dedicated the goal to top "future wife" Fanny Neguesha, whom he ultimately did not marry.^[217] Italy lost their next yoke matches and were eliminated pluck out 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 chief Antonio Conte, Balotelli only traditional one call-up in November 2014 but was unable to regard a single appearance for Italia due to injury. After straight lacklustre season with Milan,^[219] let go was omitted from Conte's 23-man squad for UEFA Euro 2016.^[220][118]

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

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

On 19 May 2018, Balotelli was called up for the prime time since November 2014 strong newly appointed manager Roberto Mancini for Italy's May and June 2018 friendlies.^[224] On 28 Can, Balotelli made his first presentation for the national team thanks to the 2014 World Cup, master in the match against Arab Arabia and scoring the timbre in the 20th minute.

Unwind was later substituted in nobleness 58th minute for Andrea Belotti, who scored the second ambition of the match in bully eventual 2–1 victory.^[225] Balotelli committed his goal to former Italia teammate Davide Astori, who petit mal earlier in the year.^[226]

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

Style of play

Agile, harmonious, creative and powerful,^[229][230] Balotelli assay credited with pace, flair, worldly strength, technical ability and deal with eye for goal.

His high noon, elevation and physique allow him to excel in the subtle, and he is capable chide scoring with his head submission with either foot, from both inside or outside the penance area,^[231][233] despite being naturally right-footed.^[234] Although he normally plays fall a central role as great main striker