It seems like Mario Balotelli will be given one more chance to shine with AC Milan, as the Italian striker has been handed an ultimatum by new coach Cristian Brocchi. The on-loan striker has only scored one goal in the Italian top flight this year, and even if unlikely, he still wants to play for Il Diavolo next season.
Speaking after Milan's 1-0 win against Sampdoria, coach Brocchi revealed he has spoken to Balotelli about his future, but he needs to see the player putting up a big effort if he wants Milan's officers to spend their money to have him around permanently.
"The important thing is that he plays every single game for the team. I don't need someone who just runs when he has the ball at his feet. I've found Mario to be eager, he promised me that he'd give everything. In the past he knew he would have other options, but now he knows he doesn't have any more," Brocchi told la Gazzetta dello Sport.
Balotelli is known for being a loose cannon off the pitch, frequently getting in trouble for his reckless behaviour. The Italian footballer played the entire match for the Rossoneri against Sampdoria last Sunday, hinting that Brocchi could give him one last chance to try to prove his worth.
"I was never happy at Liverpool" - Mario Balotelli
The Italian striker seems to have made up his mind about where he wants to continue playing, and it's nowhere near England.
In an interview with Mediaset Pro, 25-year old revealed being unhappy while playing in the English top flight, and he trusts Milan will end up paying the Reds to keep him around permanently.
"I want to stay at Milan. I do not want to return to Liverpool. I was never happy at Liverpool. Plus Milan have the money," Balotelli stated.
Back in February, team owner Silvio Berlusconi stated he could consider signing Balotelli for good if he showed improvement, but the Italian's numbers on the pitch haven't been what was expected.
Match details, result and original broadcast info
This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
Follow the game on-the-go
Download our iOS and Android apps to follow soccer on-the-go. It comes packed with features - live scores, fixtures, results, tables, line-ups, stats, TV schedule and much more! Sorry, no live streaming within the app.
