Mario Balotelli set for Italian air force style treatment in AC Milan
The Italian striker, Mario Balotelli has often made newspaper headlines for all the wrong reasons. The most notable incident being his time with Manchester City when he set fire to his house after letting off fireworks in the bathroom and luckily escaped unhurt. AC Milan is keen to revive Balotelli’s career by re-signing him from Liverpool after a short dismal season.
Mario Balotelli completed his unexpected season-long loan move to Milan on Tuesday. This is his second spell with the 7-time European champions as he was sold to the Reds for £16 million in 2014. The Italian endured a poor season at Anfield as he managed to score only four goals in 28 appearances overall.
Much of Balotelli’s move to Milan was down to the new summer recruitment plan by Brendan Rodgers, signing the young Danny Ings and Benteke. Following the arrival of fresh faces, the forward fell down the pecking order and has struggled to force his way back to the team.
The 25-year-old was repeatedly criticised for his low work rate, but there’s no doubt that the Italian international is capable of producing magical moments. Balotelli has agreed to take a pay-cut to his current wages, with Liverpool also agreeing to pay half of his salary.
His first spell with Milan was relatively successful as he netted 26 goals in 43 appearances. However, his success in the Italian league was overshadowed by his misconduct on the pitch when he made vulgar gesture at Cagliari supporters.
He served three-match bans and was caught in the toilet of a train by a ticket collector. Balotelli came under criticism by television pundits for his lacklustre performances. He hit out by telling the reporters that they did not understand football and throwing the microphone down.
AC Milan are aware of Balotelli’s antics and has set clauses in the contract similar to that of Italian air-force, as per the reports from The Guardian.
Guidelines:
1. Must not damage the image of the club.
2. Twitter, Facebook and Instagram will be closely monitored.
3. Banned from extravagant haircuts and clothing.
4. Restrain from smoking and visiting nightclubs.
5. Turn up on time for training.
6. Drinking will be limited.
The highly controversial striker is capable of producing standout performances on the pitch but he must also improve his conduct off the field. Balotelli’s recent dip in form has kept him out of the Italian squad and is desperately in need to get his career back on track.