Prandelli warns Balotelli to be calm

Italy head coach Cesare Prandelli

Rome, April 20 (IANS): Italy head football coach Cesare Prandelli has warned striker Mario Balotelli that he will have to learn how to deal with provocation if he is to have a future in the sport.

The AC Milan forward was suspended for two domestic games for abusing the fourth official during the Rossoneri’s 2-2 draw with Fiorentina, and is to miss this weekend’s clash between Milan and Juventus.

Prandelli claimed that the young forward needs to learn not to react to provocation.

“Balotelli will always be provoked,” he said. “He has to learn to shut up and not react.

“A large part of the game is staying calm, and in this respect Mario can definitely improve.

“In the future he will be provoked more and more and he needs to learn to manage himself.”

The Azzurri boss also commented on this weekend’s clash between the San Siro side and Juventus.

“I think it is going to be a spectacular game.

“Juve are close to the title and Milan are playing for third place – it’s going to be a really good game,” he said.