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Roberto Mancini Planning On Recalling Mario Balotelli To The Italy Team

Roberto Mancini Planning On Recalling Mario Balotelli To The Italy Team

He wants to talk to you striker.

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar

Former Manchester City boss and current Italy head coach Roberto Mancini has said he will talk to Nice striker Mario Balotelli about a sensational return to the national side.

Balotelli has played under Roberto Mancini at Manchester City and Inter Milan, but the two have always had a rocky relationship usually because of Mario's erratic behaviour on and off the pitch.

Image: PA
Image: PA
Image: PA
Image: PA

He hasn't played for Italy since the 2014 World Cup, yet his recent good form in the French Ligue 1 has reignited his national team career prospects.

He's enjoyed a prolific spell in France's top flight, chipping in with 18 league goals.

Mancini is replacing Gian Piero Ventura as head Italy coach following the failure to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in six decades.

And speaking at a presentation in Florence on Tuesday, Mancini stated: "Mario is an Italian player. We will definitely talk. He is one of those players we should take a new look at," he said via Sky Sports.

Image: PA
Image: PA

Balotelli who has stated he wants to return to Italy next season, ruling out a return to AC Milan, told calciomercato.com.

"Nice? I almost definitely won't stay, even if I don't know yet for certain."

"More than likely, this will be my final season here, despite it being my best one in France."

Image: PA
Image: PA

His future is clearly uncertain with regards to both club and country; however, his recent form has turned a few heads and things might've started looking up for the 27-year-old.

Does he deserve a second chance to prove himself?

Why always you, Mario?

Words by Joel Greasley.

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Football News, Football, roberto mancini, Mario Balotelli, Italy