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Branded ‘Unmanageable’ by Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ex-boss, Italian Icon Longs to Follow Al Nassr Star’s $500,000,000 Path

Published 09/28/2023, 12:20 AM EDT

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via Imago

Sometimes, it can be disheartening to see one of the most gifted players hit rock bottom. From playing for the best teams to being tagged as “unmanageable” by a coach whom Cristiano Ronaldo played under, this Italian player has been under the opinion of many players and coaches. In a recent development, the soccer operations in Saudi might have interested him. The once-acclaimed player now wants to follow the Al Nassr star’s $500 million trend.

The player is under 35 years of age and has already played in more than five different leagues, including low-tier ones. Soccer in Saudi is looking to expand by buying players from different levels, especially in Europe. But whether this player would suit their need is still to be seen.

Italian phenomenon eyes Saudi behind Cristiano Ronaldo

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In a career like a swinging pendulum, from pillar to post, Mario Balotelli’s career has been nothing short of a frustrating marathon. The player has been under extreme criticism, especially in the past few months. After moving to FC Sion in Switzerland last year, Balotelli put up an underwhelming performance for them. Now, there seems to be some dissatisfaction brewing on both ends.

 

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With a bittersweet spell in Europe, he scored just 5 goals for FC Sion in the Swiss Super League, the top tier of football in Switzerland. The management then removed him from the squad, citing below-par performance and not meeting the expectations set. The player returned to his previous Turkish team, Adana Demirspor last week. However, the Italian reportedly hinted to the media that he might move from his Turkish club and try for the Saudi Pro League.

Switching so many clubs in such a short time, is hardly a good look for an already struggling player. Balotelli may fancy the Saudis but will have to check the response from the other side. The star has hardly been an easy player to handle, with even a legendary coach once highlighting his limitations.

Why was Balotelli labeled ‘unmanageable’?

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The 33-year-old Italian made his senior debut in 2006. But he still continues to play despite so many challenges. The striker was once tagged as “unmanageable” by the current AS Roma and former CR7 coach, Jose Mourinho. Mourinho was Balotelli’s coach at Inter Milan and felt Balotelli was out of the manager’s control.

via Reuters

Even Steven Gerrard agreed with Mourinho, regarding him a difficult to handle for his demeanor. The Italian initially had a good time in the Premier League with Manchester City. In 2012, he became the only Italian player to win a Premier League title. Mario was also featured on the cover page of TIME magazine for his exceptional soccer abilities.

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Nicknamed “Super Mario,” Balotelli gave fans some joyful moments, but his behavioral problems have always kept him off guard. With his spell back to the Turkish club, whether Balotelli would be able to receive an offer from Saudi Clubs remains in suspense. Currently, the transfer window is closed, and the player is under contract with the club, which makes an immediate move difficult to fathom.

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Written by:

Ruthu

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Ruthu has a deep passion for soccer, particularly for Arsenal Football Club and the legendary Lionel Messi. With a fervent interest in sports journalism, he enjoys covering soccer from around the world. Alongside his dedication to soccer, Ruthu has a professional background as a qualified Clinical Pharmacist.
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Edited by:

Mitali Dey