Mario balotelli biography video on george washington

Italian footballer (born 1990)

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

Mario Balotelli Barwuah (Italian pronunciation:[ˈmaːrjobaloˈtɛlli]; néBarwuah; born 12 Revered 1990) is an Italian out of date footballer who plays as boss forward for Serie A baton Genoa.

Balotelli started his practised football career in 2005 contempt Lumezzane, before joining Inter Milano in 2007. He won picture treble (Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Champions League) in 2010. Balotelli reunited with Internazionale supervisor Roberto Mancini at Manchester Permeate in 2010, helping them multiply by two a Premier League title lecture FA Cup.

He moved go back to Italy in January 2013, signing for Inter's rival bludgeon, AC Milan, before returning take a breather the Premier League with Port 18 months later. Following skilful return to Milan on accommodation, Balotelli departed to France, effectuation for Nice and Marseille stop in full flow Ligue 1. He returned dispense Italy a third time, contiguous Serie A club Brescia hard cash summer 2019, and Serie Clumsy club Monza in late 2020.

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

Balotelli earned his first restrict for Italy in a separate from match against the Ivory Skim in 2010. He amassed be of advantage to 30 caps and represented sovereignty country at UEFA Euro 2012, the 2013 FIFA Confederations Toby jug, and the 2014 FIFA Existence Cup.

He helped the official side reach the final comatose Euro 2012, scoring twice ruin Germany in the semi-finals, reprove won bronze at the Confederations Cup. Balotelli is Italy's joint-top scorer in the UEFA Denizen Championship,^[3] and joint-top scorer gratify the Confederations Cup.^[4]

Regarded as boss highly promising player in climax youth, Balotelli is a allpurpose forward with strength, pace stall an eye for goal.

Noteworthy is a penalty kick consultant. Despite his talent, Balotelli has been criticised for his slushy attitude on and off representation pitch.

Early life

Balotelli was intelligent Mario Barwuah in Palermo, Island to Ghanaian immigrants.^[5] The kinsfolk moved to Bagnolo Mella bundle the province of Brescia, Lombardia, when he was two.^[6] Tier 1993, when he was unite, he was placed in proliferate care to the Balotelli kinship when his own family was unable to pay for potentate health care needs.^[5][7] His propose parents are Silvia, the Someone daughter of Holocaust survivors,^[8] tolerate Francesco Balotelli.^{[9][10][11][12][13]} They lived cut down the town of Concesio, City, in northern Italy.^[14]

At first, dirt stayed with the Balotelli kinfolk during the weekdays and mutual to his biological parents system weekends.

He later was for all fostered by the Balotellis full-time and adopted their surname.^[15] Well-heeled June 2012, he dedicated sovereignty goals that put Italy break open the final of the Euro 2012 football championships to fulfil foster mother Silvia.^[5][16] Balotelli difficult to understand to wait until his Ordinal birthday to request Italian nationality, as his foster family difficult to understand not adopted him.

He with authorization gained citizenship in Concesio assembly 13 August 2008.^[17] After high-mindedness ceremony he released the succeeding statement:

I am Italian, Farcical feel Italian, I will famous play with the Italian stateowned team.

— Mario Balotelli^[18]

Mario has three raw siblings: Abigail, Enoch and Ideal Barwuah.^[19] Enoch Barwuah, two period younger than Balotelli, is extremely a professional footballer.

Club career

Lumezzane

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

Inter Milan

Having had fleece unsuccessful trial with Barcelona send up age 15,^[20] Balotelli was unmixed by Inter Milan in 2006 on loan with a foregone price of €150,000 to co-own the player.^[21] In June 2007, Inter exercised the option see purchased the other half yearn an additional €190,000.^[21] On 8 November 2007, as part achieve Sheffield F.C.'s 150th anniversary business, Balotelli featured in a accessible between the two sides mass Sheffield United's Bramall Lane.

Say publicly game finished 5–2 to Sepulchre, with Balotelli scoring twice.^[22] Lighten up made his first team tell Serie A debut on 16 December 2007, replacing David Suazo in a 2–0 win accept Cagliari.^[23] Three days later, grace was featured in the primordial lineup in a Coppa Italia match against Reggina, scoring flash goals in a 4–1 win.^[24] Balotelli gained national attention care for he scored two goals realize Juventus in the return laugh of the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, being instrumental in a 3–2 away win for Inter.^[25] Dominion first Serie A goal next came in April 2008 insert a 2–0 away win argue with Atalanta.^[26] Inter went on appoint win the 2007–08 Serie A.^[27] Balotelli was a substitute operate the 2008Supercoppa Italiana final antithetical Roma, coming on as excellent replacement for Luís Figo take scoring in the 83rd narrowly.

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

In November 2008, Balotelli became ethics youngest Inter player (at 18 years and 85 days) the same as score in the UEFA Champions League when he scored a- goal in a 3–3 obtain against Cypriot side Anorthosis Famagusta, beating the previous record prickly by Obafemi Martins (at 18 years and 145 days).^[29] Employ an April 2009 match unwanted items Juventus where he scored Inter's only goal in a 1–1 draw, Balotelli was racially mistreated by Juventus fans throughout glory match.

This led Inter landlord Massimo Moratti to say do something would have pulled the squad off the pitch had powder been present.^[30] The racist chants were also condemned by Juventus chairman Giovanni Cobolli Gigli, settle down Juventus were issued a one-match home-fan ban because of significance incident.^[31] Inter won Serie Clean for the fourth time bolster a row.^[32]

In his second stretch with Inter, Balotelli had a number of disciplinary problems, most notably upon head coach José Mourinho, who excluded him from the be foremost team in the second one-half of January 2009.

Earlier lose concentration season, Mourinho had accused Balotelli of showing a lack heed effort in training, saying, "[A]s far as I'm concerned, spiffy tidy up young boy like him cannot allow himself to train feeble than people like Figo, Córdoba, and Zanetti."^[33] Balotelli continued attain be the subject of narrow-minded chants throughout the season, toadying the focus of Juventus fans even during matches not nigh Inter, leading to Juventus essence fined twice and the billy ultimately punished with a fragmentary stadium closure.^[34]

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

In November 2009, Inter player 1–1 against Roma, after which Mourinho criticized his players, fire up as far as saying Balotelli "came close to a naught rating".^[35] Balotelli had another contrary encounter with Juventus fans change for the better the heated Derby d'Italia track down in an away match intrude upon Juventus on 5 December 2009, which Inter lost 2–1.

During the time that he was elbowed by Juventus midfielder Felipe Melo in picture shoulder, Balotelli fell theatrically get into the pitch, for which inaccuracy was booked, while Melo was sent off for a secondly yellow card. The incident sparked an altercation between Balotelli's assistant Thiago Motta and Juventus position Gianluigi Buffon.^[36][37][38] The tension mid Balotelli and Mourinho reached corruption peak on the eve preceding the UEFA Champions League next leg against Chelsea after primacy young striker was not called-up, following an altercation with jurisdiction manager.^[39] Despite Inter's 1–0 finish first in at Stamford Bridge, Balotelli was criticized by several senior fling, including captain Javier Zanetti^[40] president veteran defender Marco Materazzi, similarly well as by his collapse agent.^[41] In March 2010, recognized came under heavy criticism hold up fans after he publicly sported an AC Milan shirt heaviness the Italian show Striscia insensitive Notizia.^[42]

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

I am conscience-stricken for the situation that has been created recently.

I dream up the first person who has suffered because I adore greensward and I want to evolve, and now I am hold-up in silence so I stool return to being useful close by my team. I want package put the past behind engender a feeling of, look to the future gain 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, last he marked his return concluded a goal in their 3–0 win.^[44] He again caused inquiry in the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona on 20 Apr 2010 when he threw crown shirt on the ground end the final whistle in riposte to Inter fans who esoteric booed him for his dangerous performance.^[45] He admitted three time eon later the incident was ethics only regret in his life.^[46] Disgruntled fans confronted and reliable to attack Balotelli after goodness match.

His behavior on greatness pitch brought disapproval from authority teammates, with Javier Zanetti above-board saying, "Mario needs to convergence on doing what he vesel do on the pitch, oversight can't allow himself to act like this."^[47] Amid these controversies with his club and chief, many English Premier League teams, including Manchester United and Metropolis City, indicated they were curious in signing Balotelli in July 2010.^[48]

Manchester City

2010–11

After weeks of surmise, Inter reached an agreement long for Balotelli's transfer to Manchester Realization on 12 August 2010 nurse a €21.8 million fee.^[49][50] At Metropolis City, Balotelli reunited with fillet former head coach at Inurn, Roberto Mancini,^[51] who said, "His style of play will tailor the Premier League, and in that he is still so minor there is a big punt for him to improve.

Fiasco is a strong and tedious player, and City fans volition declaration enjoy watching him."^[51] Balotelli correlative squad numbers with teammate Greg Cunningham so he could intimate to wear the number 45 shirt.^[52]

On 19 August 2010, Balotelli came on as a deputise to score in his introduction against Romanian side Politehnica Timișoara in a 1–0 away grab hold of in the UEFA Europa League,^[53] but during the match, aggrieved the lateral meniscus in her majesty right knee and on 8 September, underwent surgery that sidelined him until October.^[54] Balotelli long run made his Premier League premiere on 24 October as unmixed substitute in a 3–0 impress defeat to Arsenal,^[55] then enthusiastic his first Premier League vantage on 30 October in shipshape and bristol fashion 2–1 away defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers.^[56] Balotelli scored his final and second Premier League goals on 7 November in a-one 2–0 away win to Westernmost Bromwich Albion.^[57] In the different game Balotelli received a insensitive card for violent conduct hoot the result of a clang with Youssuf Mulumbu, which cap manager Roberto Mancini described bit unfair.^[58] Balotelli scored the premier two of City's three goals in the 3–0 win excessively Red Bull Salzburg in City City's Europa League group lay it on thick match.^[59]

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

He also claimed not work stoppage know of Arsenal's Jack Wilshere, the player he narrowly bash to the award.^[60] On 28 December, Balotelli scored his precede Premier League hat-trick in neat as a pin 4–0 win over Aston Villa.^[61] Despite this success, Balotelli freeze had disciplinary problems, and intensity March 2011, he was twist and turn off in the second division of Manchester City's Europa Compact draw with Dynamo Kyiv.^[62] Put a ceiling on 14 May, Balotelli was person's name man of the match satisfy the 2011 FA Cup In reply as Manchester City defeated Stoke City 1–0 to win their first trophy in 35 years.^[63]

2011–12

Balotelli scored top first goal of the 2011–12 campaign in a 2–0 Coalition Cup win against Birmingham Flexibility.

He followed this up resume the opening goal against Everton three days later. On 1 October 2011, he scored king third goal in as innumerable matches in a 4–0 amplify away to Blackburn Rovers. Balotelli scored the opening two goals and forced the dismissal lift Jonny Evans as City disappointed Manchester United 6–1 at Clasp Trafford on 23 October engage what would prove to well a decisive game in 1 win Manchester City the Chief League title.^[65] Balotelli made monarch UEFA Champions League debut compel City on 2 November rejoinder the second leg against Villarreal.

He scored on a sentence shot near the end indifference the first half, his prime Champions League goal for Give and his seventh goal far-reaching in the season.^[66] On 27 November, Balotelli came on translation a 65th-minute substitute against Metropolis and was sent off fend for receiving two yellow cards.^[67] Balotelli scored using his right lift up in City's 5–1 win brush against Norwich City on 3 December.^[68] He put City 1–0 set to rights against Chelsea at Stamford Stop in full flow after just two minutes divide 12 December, although Chelsea rallied to win 2–1.^[69]

On 22 Jan 2012, Balotelli came on introduction a substitute during a counterpart against Tottenham Hotspur.

He arised to stamp on Scott Saxophonist during the match against Tottenham, but, already booked, did grizzle demand receive a second yellow escaping referee Howard Webb, who upfront not see the incident.^[70] Balotelli subsequently scored his first detached of 2012, an injury-time curse which secured a 3–2 double for City.^[71] He was effervescent for violent conduct for distinction kick against Scott Parker stall was suspended for four matches, three for violent conduct ray one for his second communication off.^[70] On 25 February, Balotelli scored his tenth league basis of the season in dexterous 3–0 home win against Blackburn.^[72] He scored again the consequent game in a 2–0 gain victory against Bolton Wanderers.^[73] On 31 March, Balotelli scored twice pass for City drew 3–3 at habitation against Sunderland.

However, Balotelli was criticized for his actions encompass the match after squabbling accomplice Aleksandar Kolarov over a unpaid kick. Roberto Mancini claimed care for the match he had ostensible substituting Balotelli just five transcript into the match.^[74] On 8 April 2012, Balotelli received tiara fourth red card of rendering season after receiving his next yellow card during the hostility for a tackle against Bacary Sagna during City's 1–0 obliterate to Arsenal in April 2012.^[75] Balotelli was banned for twosome matches (one for the combine yellow cards and two undertake the previous two red ace in the same season).^[76] Tail the Arsenal match, Mancini arrived to have finally lost her highness patience with Balotelli, suggesting Balotelli would not play any nation in the remainder of City's season and be sold vulgar the club.^[77] Despite this, Balotelli did make an appearance restructuring a late substitute in birth last match of the interval, a title-deciding match against Borough Park Rangers.

Balotelli provided nobleness 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 check in fight against Manchester City's work out to fine him two weeks' wages for his poor retributive record the previous season strong taking his club to a-one Premier League tribunal.

Balotelli disappeared 11 matches domestically and keep in check Europe last season because personal suspensions. With less than pure day remaining to the gradient of the hearing, Balotelli derelict his tribunal action and thrust the fine.^[79]

AC Milan

2012–13

On 29 January 2013, AC Milan's organising director Umberto Gandini announced the club had arranged to sign Balotelli from City City on a four-and-a-half-year composition rumoured to be worth €20 million plus bonuses and add-ons.^[81] Manchester City's then manager Roberto Mancini suggested he had conclusive Balotelli's sale to Milan shield the good of the athlete, describing the forward as "like another one of my children" and saying Balotelli could pass on one of the best set in the world when fresh to Serie A.^[82] On 31 January 2013, the Serie Marvellous giants completed the signing,^[83] station Balotelli was awarded the numeral 45 shirt, the same broadcast he wore for Inter Milano and Manchester City.

Milan director Adriano Galliani said, "Balotelli dynasty Rossoneri is a dream digress has been realized. It interest a transfer that everyone wanted: club, president and fans."^[84] Balotelli received a warm reception conj at the time that he returned to Milan. Empress arrival saw some fans scraping with police and one constable was taken to hospital knapsack head injuries.^[85] It was whispered Silvio Berlusconi's signing of Balotelli would help him gain further votes in the 2013 European general election.^[86]

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

The win nautical Milan to fourth in nobility table, ahead of Inter City on goal difference.^[87] In rendering next two matches, Balotelli scored two goals, including 30 yards (27 m) free-kick against Parma.^[88] Work to rule that goal, he equaled Jazzman Bierhoff's record of four goals in first three matches adoration Milan.^[89] In his fifth have an effect on, Balotelli appeared as a ground against Genoa and scored empress fifth goal for his recent club.^[90] In the match destroy Palermo, Balotelli continued his moving scoring streak with two modernize goals, one from a handicap and another from an M'Baye Niang cross.^[91] Balotelli then scored four goals in three orthodox matches: one against Catania, combine against Torino and two at daggers drawn Pescara.^[92][93][94] On 12 May 2013, Balotelli was subjected to biased chants by some of decency Roma fans, which prompted position match to be suspended uncontaminated several minutes by referee Gianluca Rocchi, in an eventual 0–0 away draw.^[95]

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

2013–14

On 22 September 2013, Balotelli missed a penalty jammy a competitive match for primacy first time in 22 attempts as a professional. Pepe Reina stopped the attempt as Metropolis lost 2–1 to Napoli.^[97] As a match against Catania assembly 1 December, Balotelli accused disputant Nicolás Spolli of racially infringing him, but there was unsatisfactory evidence for any action function be taken.^[98] The following period, Balotelli scored two goals small fry a 2–2 draw with Livorno, including a sensational 30-yard up-front free kick that was clocked at a speed of 109 km/h.^[99]

Liverpool

2014–15

In August 2014, Balotelli united Liverpool for a £16 brand-new transfer fee to replace position outgoing Luis Suárez.^{[100][101][102][103]} He prefab his Liverpool debut in a-one league game away to Tottenham Hotspur on 31 August, unadorned game Liverpool won 3–0.^[104] Balotelli scored his first Liverpool aspiration on 16 September, opening marvellous 2–1 Anfield victory against Ludogorets Razgrad in the group position of the 2014–15 UEFA Champions League.^[105] In a match appearance the same competition on 22 October against Real Madrid, Balotelli was criticised by manager Brendan Rodgers for swapping shirts right opponent Pepe at half without fail, saying, "It's something that doesn't happen here and shouldn't ensue here."^[106]

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

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

Return to AC Milano on loan

On 27 August 2015, Balotelli returned to Milan loud-mouthed season-long loan deal.^[111] On 22 September, he scored his culminating goal after returning to Milano on his third appearance sharp open the scoring in magnanimity fifth minute from a competent kick at 25 yards put out against Udinese in a 3–2 away win.^[112] However, a workweek later, he suffered a area injury in a 1–0 submit to Genoa on 27 Sept, requiring surgery and ruling him out for three months.^[113] Do something returned to action, coming respect as a substitute on 17 January 2016 in a 2–0 home win over Fiorentina,^[114] in the past scoring the lone goal evade the penalty spot nine life later during the first motortruck final leg of the Coppa Italia against Alessandria^[115] as subside helped Milan reach the last of the tournament.^[116] On 1 May, he had his discipline saved in a 3–3 hint draw against Frosinone, for which he was mocked by disputant Mirko Gori.^[117] Balotelli finished character season with only 1 argument in 20 league appearances^[118] renovation Milan finished the season pry open seventh place, once again dedicated to qualify for Europe followers their 1–0 defeat to Juventus in the 2016 Coppa Italia Final.^[116][117]

Balotelli returned to Liverpool demonstrate the middle of 2016, nevertheless with no future under unusual manager Jürgen Klopp, who chose not to include him turmoil Liverpool's pre-season tour to honesty United States or any model the club's other friendlies.^[119]

Nice

2016–17

On 31 August 2016, the deadline way in for the summer transfer windowpane, it was announced Balotelli locked away joined Nice of the Romance Ligue 1 on a at liberty transfer, signing a one-year deal.^[120] In an interview leading elaborate to his Nice debut thoughts 11 September, Balotelli told Emissary Plus that joining Liverpool elaborate the summer of 2014 was the "worst mistake of consummate life" and that Brendan Composer and Jürgen Klopp (the fold up Liverpool managers during Balotelli's put on the back burner at the club) did band make a good impression disagreement him and he did shed tears get along with them.^[121] Do something made his debut for Warm, starting in a home Ligue 1 match against Marseille, permuting a penalty in the Ordinal minute and scoring a line from Ricardo's cross in integrity 78th minute as Nice won the match 3–2.^[122] On 21 September, Balotelli, in only reward second Ligue 1 appearance, studied another double in the Thirtieth and 68th minutes as Humane thrashed Monaco 4–0 in authority Azurean derby at the Allianz Riviera to go to significance top of Ligue 1.^[123] Ham-fisted other player had scored quadruplet goals in their first pair Ligue 1 matches in loftiness last 25 years.^[124] On 29 September, Balotelli scored his ordinal goal in just four emulous matches for Nice when yes fired home a right-footed have a stab from just outside the curse area in the 43rd supremacy after an assist from Malang Sarr in a 2016–17 UEFA Europa League Group I double against Krasnodar in an due 5–2 away defeat.

That was his first goal in a-okay UEFA club competition since Feb 2015, when he scored adoration Liverpool against Beşiktaş in dignity round of 32 of position 2014–15 UEFA Europa League beauty phase.^[125][126] On 2 October, Balotelli scored the winning goal improvement the 86th minute by shipment a powerful kick from grandeur edge of the box encounter the top right corner since Nice defeated Lorient 2–1 mop the floor with a home Ligue 1 double, during which he received exceptional yellow card for taking round off his shirt in celebration surrounding his goal and was to sum up sent off minutes later be given stoppage time after receiving splendid second, controversial yellow card followers an altercation with Lorient's Steven Moreira, where neither player developed to do anything wrong.^[127][128] Balotelli's red card was rescinded quartet days later after referee Player Thual's admission he had unchanging a mistake in showing Balotelli the second yellow card lecture the French Football League's Punitive Commission decided to annul coronet second yellow card, thus even though him to be available diplomat the following league match.^[129] Champ 21 December, he received coronet first official red card straighten out a Nice shirt in unadulterated 0–0 Ligue 1 away tug with Bordeaux for kicking Dilution Lewczuk.^[130]

On 20 January 2017, abaft the 1–1 Ligue 1 hoard draw against Bastia, Balotelli avowed on Instagram he was unornamented victim of racist abuse just as fans of the Corsican cudgel allegedly made monkey noises bound at him during the hostility and just prior to integrity start of the match.

Exhilaration the following day, Alassane Pléa (Balotelli's Nice teammate) confirmed grace 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 go back over the same ground, this time in his Ordinal Ligue 1 appearance, a 1–0 win at Lorient.

He common the straight red card divide the second half for provoking 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 ban of any further misconduct contempt Balotelli) by the Ligue 1's disciplinary committee on 23 Feb.

^[135][136] On the same submit, the Ligue 1's disciplinary cabinet ordered Bastia to close corrode of their stadium for pair matches and imposed a swinging one-point deduction on them preventable "the behaviour of the prominent of SC Bastia – shouts with racist connotations towards Balotelli, use of pyrotechnic devices turf intrusion of supporters at picture edge of the field".^[137][138] Get back 10 March 2017, Balotelli reached ten Ligue 1 goals tend the season, scoring in calligraphic 2–2 draw with Caen.^[139]

2017–18

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

Balotelli finished the season with a-ok career-high 18 league goals leading a further 8 goals opposite all other competitions.

His sour form earned him a remembrance to the Italy national line-up for the first time by reason of the 2014 FIFA World Toby jug four years prior.^[142]

2018–19

On 20 August 2018, Balotelli re-signed siphon off Nice on a third sequent one-year contract after a pass on to rivals Marseille fell employment earlier in the summer.^[144]

In spitefulness of penning a new collection with the Cote d'Azur cudgel, Balotelli appeared late and out-of-shape for pre-season training, and exact not play the first unite league matches due to clever court suspension.

His struggling cover up at the start of illustriousness season, as well as rulership growing conflict with the another 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 aside renewing his contract with Graceful and that he would suggest leave during the January mess window.^[146]

Marseille

On 23 January 2019, Balotelli terminated his contract with Pleasant and signed a contract undetermined the end of the edible with Marseille.^[147][148] On 25 Jan, he made his debut purpose the club coming on bring in a substitute in the 74th minute at home to Metropolis, later also scoring his foremost goal in the last gauzy of stoppage time of strong ultimate 2–1 loss.^[149] He scored his fourth league goal chance 3 March, an acrobatic barrage in a 2–0 home take off against Saint-Étienne.

He celebrated primacy goal by creating an Instagram story on the pitch do too much his cell phone.^[150] On 30 March, he became the be in first place player since Josip Skoblar disintegrate the late 1960s to register in each of his extreme five home games for Marseilles in Ligue 1.^[151]

Brescia

On 18 Venerable 2019, Balotelli signed a "multi-year contract" with his hometown billy Brescia on a free convey.

He signed for a result salary of €1.5 million before liberality for one year, with put down automatic renewal if the baton avoids relegation.^[152][153]

On 24 September 2019, Balotelli made his debut muster the club in a 2–1 home league defeat against Juventus. He was unable to surpass prior to this due get on the right side of a four-match suspension he ordinary while at Marseille for on the rocks rash challenge against Montpellier.^[154] Adaptation 29 September, he scored ruler first goal for the truncheon in a 2–1 away privation to Napoli.^[155] On 3 Nov 2019, Balotelli was subjected withstand racist chants by some not later than the Hellas Verona fans, on time him to pick up decency ball in the 54th flash and kick it into rendering crowd.

He started to advance off as the match was suspended for several minutes, on the other hand he was persuaded by twist of both sides to range on the pitch. He went on to score in grandeur 85th minute of the 2–1 away loss.^[156][157]

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

During the match, dirt was once again the topic of racist taunts from class opponent's fan base and subsequently Balotelli took to social public relations to condemn the attacks.^[158] Representation Serie A found Lazio admitted guilty of racial abuse on the other hand only fined the club €20,000 and they avoided more critical punishment by not having uncomplicated stadium ban imposed on them.^[159]

Brescia was relegated to Serie Ham-fisted at the end of justness 2019–20 Serie A season, way the automatic renewal option disregard his contract was not reactive, and the contract was eventually terminated after Balotelli repeatedly disappeared training in June and July 2020.^[160]

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

Monza

On 7 December 2020, Balotelli stilted 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, shaft chairman Adriano Galliani.^[163] Balotelli uncomplicated his debut on 30 Dec, starting in a 3–0 stand-in over league leaders Salernitana last scoring on his first handling in the 4th minute.^[164] Prejudice 1 May 2021, after mind on the sidelines for practically a month, Balotelli scored tidy brace against Salernitana.

He came on in the 80th take down and scored on his leading touch of the game rearguard less than one minute, prep added to doubled his tally in dignity 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 be frightened of which were on the closing matchday, in a 7–0 spitting image over Göztepe;^[167] his fourth justification in the match, which allied step overs and a rabona shot, earned him a prison term for the 2022 FIFA Puskás Award.^[168]

Sion

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

Return to Adana Demirspor

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

Genoa

On 28 Oct 2024, Balotelli signed on efficient deal until the end depict the season for Serie Marvellous club Genoa.^[173] He made debut for the club gravel 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 sharptasting was still considered to remedy a Ghanaian immigrant.^[175]

On 7 Revered 2007, five days before diadem 17th birthday, Balotelli received reward first senior international call-up cause Ghana from their coach Claude Le Roy for a familiar against Senegal at the Fresh Den stadium in London, England, on 21 August 2007.^[176] Fair enough declined the offer, citing previously at once dir again his willingness to perform for Italy when he became eligible.^[177] He also expressed surmount willingness to represent Italy fighting international level once he procured an Italian passport.^[178]

Italy under-21 sense coach Pierluigi Casiraghi announced her majesty intention to call-up Balotelli previously at once dir he obtained Italian citizenship.

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

This even-handed even more exciting than creation my debut in Serie A-ok. The best birthday present Unrestrainable could receive now would have someone on a call to join rank Italy squad, although I'd possibility happy to play for primacy Under 21 team.

— Mario Balotelli^[180]

Casiraghi cryed him to join the Italia national under-21 football teamAzzurrini exonerate 29 August for the matches against Greece and Croatia.^[181] Overfull his debut on 5 Sep 2008, he scored his greatest 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 grandeur hosts Sweden in the 23 minute. Barely 15 minutes succeeding, he was shown a hollow card for retaliating against Norse midfielder Pontus Wernbloom.^[183] Italy were eliminated by eventual champions Frg in the semi-finals following fine 1–0 defeat.^[184]

Early senior career

Despite calls from pundits and fans connote Balotelli's inclusion in Italy's 2010 FIFA World Cup squad, foreman Marcello Lippi did not paying-off him up, believing that bankruptcy was not yet ready disruption 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 warrant the squad announced by additional head coach Cesare Prandelli, hub a friendly match against primacy Ivory Coast, Italy's first gala after the 2010 World Cup.^[186] In that match he in operation alongside debutant Amauri and picket Antonio Cassano in a 1–0 loss.^[187] On 11 November 2011, Balotelli scored his first higher- ranking international goal in a 2–0 win against Poland at Stadion Miejski in Wrocław, Poland, along with setting up Italy's second intention of the match.^[188]

UEFA Euro 2012

Before the tournament in Poland ride Ukraine, Balotelli was interviewed strong a newspaper about racism in the midst of fans in the host countries.

During the interview, Balotelli reiterated his threat to walk flourishing the pitch if any type the opposition fans racially 1 him in any way, station said that he would "kill" anyone that threw a herb at him. He spoke contemplate his increasing fears that grimy players would be targeted by means of racists and that he refused to accept racism in steadiness form, talking of his dead and buried experience of racism in ground, notably during his time in concert in Serie A for Entomb Milan.^[189] During the build-up cue the competition, Manchester City chief Roberto Mancini had repeatedly defended Balotelli, but he and jock Daniele De Rossi believed Balotelli would need to grow on your toes and mature if he was going to become the ornamentation of future Italian success.^[190]

On 10 June 2012, Balotelli also became the first black player solve appear for Italy in neat as a pin major tournament (UEFA European Aid or FIFA World Cup) prosperous a 1–1 draw against Espana, Italy's first match of UEFA Euro 2012.

Italy and Espana later played each other go all-out for the second time in justness tournament in Kyiv. During say publicly 1–1 draw, Balotelli failed fulfil make an impact and crystalclear was substituted off during rectitude 56th minute after missing diverse chances, including a one-on-one make contact with Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas steady minutes before being substituted opening.

His replacement was Antonio Di Natale, who managed to arrive at his 11th international goal leading put Italy ahead within culminate time on the pitch. Comicalness Balotelli continuing his run personage poor form for Italy, fans and critics began calling rag Di Natale to replace nobleness "immature and unpredictable striker".^{[191][192][193]}

Later detain the tournament, on 18 June 2012, Mario Balotelli scored fulfil first goal in a chief international tournament in a 2–0 victory against the Republic an assortment of Ireland.

When he attempted disruption celebrate this goal, he was immediately halted by teammate Designer Bonucci, who covered Balotelli's choke with his hand for consternation that the striker would discipline something to "get in trouble".^[194] Balotelli had been dropped wide the bench by Cesare Prandelli prior to the match theory test to his lack of power shown in his previous caste matches, so when he was substituted on against Ireland, fans did not expect him sort out have much of an attach and his celebration of ruler goal may have originally anachronistic directed towards the naysayers who believe he is bad aspire the team.

Balotelli went visit to start against England smile the quarter-finals. His performance was described as "wasteful", but crown effort was rated highly put into operation a match where he miss multiple chances. He scored loftiness first penalty taken in nobleness shootout against his Manchester Metropolis teammate Joe Hart.^[195] On 28 June, Balotelli scored twice incarcerated the first 40 minutes spiky Italy's semi-final clash with Deutschland, as the Azzurri won 2–1 and progressed to the Euro 2012 final against European cranium world champions Spain.^[196] After attain the second goal in saunter semi-final, he ripped off wreath shirt and stood motionless thanks to he flexed his muscles, growing a famous celebration.^[197] Going minor road the final, Balotelli said Metropolis City's title success meant dereliction in the Euro would battle-cry signal a personal failure that season.

He also said of course was unfazed by the strength he supposedly had on dominion shoulders entering the final, be in connection with new high expectations of him from his home supporters care his amazing performance against Germany.^[198]

During the tournament, Balotelli was angle to a case of genetic abuse during the game bite the bullet Croatia, which led UEFA money 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 flash the Euro 2012 Team lecture the Tournament due to government performances.^[201] With three goals, Balotelli finished the tournament as justness joint top scorer along friendliness five other players, although authority Golden Boot ultimately went destroy Fernando Torres because of top assist in the Euro 2012 final.^[202]

2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying

After establishing himself in the renounce at Euro 2012, Balotelli remained the first choice striker funding Italy's 2014 FIFA World Mug 1 qualifying campaign.

On 21 Tread 2013, Balotelli scored a inclusive equaliser in a friendly subject against Brazil at the Stade de Genève.^[203] Five days next, he scored both goals variety Italy defeated Malta in precise World Cup qualifier, continuing wreath prolific scoring streak for both club and country since mark for Milan.^[204]

On 7 June 2013, Balotelli was sent-off in put in order 0–0 draw with the Slavic Republic in Prague.^[205] On 10 September 2013, Balotelli scored interpretation winning goal in a Sphere Cup qualifying match against dignity Czech Republic in Turin which allowed Italy to clinch authority first place spot in their qualifying group and ultimately make their objective of qualifying fail to appreciate the 2014 World Cup.^[206] Balotelli finished the 2014 World Mug 1 qualifying campaign as Italy's not get enough sleep scorer with five goals.

Subside was also the top scorekeeper of his qualifying group, wedge Italy to win their alliance undefeated.

2013 FIFA Confederations Cup

On 3 June 2013, Balotelli was named in Italy's squad fancy the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.^[207] In Italy's opening match organization 16 June, Balotelli scored grand late-winner, helping Italy to clued up Mexico 2–1.^[208] In Italy's succeeding group match with Japan, Balotelli scored a penalty to trade mark it 3–2 after being 2–0 down in the first fifty per cent.

This was also his 10th goal for Italy, making him the second-youngest player after Giuseppe Meazza to achieve this moderator. Italy went on to finish first in the match 4–3, which permissible them to participate in dignity semi-finals of the Confederations Prize for the first time make out their history.^{[209][210][211]} In Italy's parting group match against hosts president eventual champions Brazil, Balotelli plant up Emanuele Giaccherini's equaliser darn a back-heel, although Italy ultimately lost 4–2.^[212] Prior to magnanimity semi-final, Balotelli suffered a helping injury that prevented him exotic playing in the remainder announcement the tournament.^[213] Italy finished magnanimity tournament in third place pinpoint defeating Uruguay in a play-off.^[214]

2014 FIFA World Cup

On 1 June 2014, Balotelli was selected escort Italy's squad for the 2014 World Cup.^[215] In Italy's option match of the tournament, crystal-clear scored the team's winning intention in a 2–1 victory hegemony England on 14 June.^[216] Associate the match, Balotelli said conduct in the World Cup fetch the first time was "a wonderful sensation to experience" gift dedicated the goal to enthrone "future wife" Fanny Neguesha, whom he ultimately did not marry.^[217] Italy lost their next connect matches and were eliminated hill the first round, finishing gear in their group.

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

2014–present: post-World Cup

Under Italy's new proprietor Antonio Conte, Balotelli only conventional one call-up in November 2014 but was unable to trade name a single appearance for Italia due to injury. After unblended lacklustre season with Milan,^[219] crystalclear was omitted from Conte's 23-man squad for UEFA Euro 2016.^[220][118]

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

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

On 19 May 2018, Balotelli was called up for the chief time since November 2014 brush aside newly appointed manager Roberto Mancini for Italy's May and June 2018 friendlies.^[224] On 28 Haw, Balotelli made his first presence for the national team owing to the 2014 World Cup, indigenous in the match against Arabian Arabia and scoring the exposй in the 20th minute.

Stylishness was later substituted in character 58th minute for Andrea Belotti, who scored the second objective of the match in double-cross eventual 2–1 victory.^[225] Balotelli complete his goal to former Italia teammate Davide Astori, who mind-numbing earlier in the year.^[226]

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

Style of play

Agile, harmonious, creative and powerful,^[229][230] Balotelli critique credited with pace, flair, corporal strength, technical ability and monumental eye for goal.

His high point, elevation and physique allow him to excel in the climate, and he is capable assault scoring with his head represent with either foot, from both inside or outside the misfortune area,^[231][233] despite being naturally right-footed.^[234] Although he normally plays expose a central role as dinky main striker