Mario Balotelli has been told to grow up by Italy coach Cesare Prandelli, as the Manchester City forward was left out of the nation’s squad to play United States on Wednesday.
The game ended in a 1-0 win for the North American team, with the Italian media slamming their side; however Prandelli has revealed his reasons for excluding Balotelli.
“There are rules and they must be respected,” Prandelli is quoted as saying in Mirror Football.
“When Balotelli begins to behave well he will get a call-up. He has been handed eight games in suspensions so far in England, which is a lot.
“A great player must be able to face provocation and should not react. He can still have an extraordinary career, but there is no justification for certain types of behaviour,” he explained.
Reports in Italy are stating that Prandelli wants Balotelli to phone him to assure that his behaviour will improve, something that the attacker’s agent feels is preposterous.
“Mario has been crucified by an entirely undeserved suspension,” Mino Raiola stated.
“He has not been called up and now we read the statements of Prandelli.
“If a player is not called up, it should be up to the coach to pick up the phone and explain the reason – it has always been that way. Instead Prandelli wants Balotelli to call him. For what? To cry and complain about being left out?
“If Prandelli does not want to take Balotelli to the European Championships he must say it now,” the representative concluded.
By Gareth McKnight
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