TURIN: New Italy coach Roberto Mancini on Saturday recalled Nice striker Mario Balotelli for three friendlies against Saudi Arabia, France and the Netherlands. Balotelli was last called up by coach Antonio Conte in November 2014 but did not play because of injury. He has now been given another chance by Mancini, who coached him at both Inter Milan and Manchester City. Balotelli has resurrected his career since joining Nice in 2016 after less successful spells with AC Milan and Liverpool, scoring 26 goals from 37 appearances in all competitions this season. As a youngster, Balotelli was part of the Inter side coached by Jose Mourinho, now of Manchester United, that won the Champions League in 2010.

Source: New Strait Times May 19, 2018 16:41 UTC