Balotelli Set to Stay at AC Milan Under Inzaghi’s Leadership
Italy striker Mario Balotelli appears set to remain at AC Milan despite earlier transfer rumours linking him with a move away from the San Siro this summer.
After a turbulent season in which the 23-year-old’s performances were inconsistent, speculation mounted that the club was ready to part ways with the controversial forward. Milan president Silvio Berlusconi had publicly suggested that Balotelli could be sold, possibly to a Premier League side, fuelling further talk of a return to England.
However, the arrival of Filippo Inzaghi as head coach has seemingly shifted the club’s stance on Balotelli’s future. The former Milan striker, appointed this summer to replace Clarence Seedorf, has stated he is counting on the Italian international for the upcoming campaign.
Speaking to Sport Mediaset, Inzaghi confirmed Balotelli would rejoin the team shortly and take part in their upcoming pre-season tour of the United States. “Mario will return on July 21 and will be with us in the United States,” he said. “He is part of our plans.”
Balotelli’s inclusion in Milan’s squad for the US tour suggests the club may be prepared to reintegrate him rather than seek a transfer. The Rossoneri are scheduled to compete in the International Champions Cup, a high-profile pre-season tournament also featuring clubs such as Manchester City, Liverpool, and Olympiacos.
Should Balotelli take part, he could face his former side Manchester City, where he played between 2010 and 2013. The reunion would mark a notable chapter in his career, which has often been overshadowed by controversies both on and off the pitch.
Despite his talent and moments of brilliance, Balotelli’s consistency and discipline have been frequent concerns for club and country. Nonetheless, Inzaghi’s vote of confidence might signal a fresh start for the forward under new management.
Balotelli, who is of Ghanaian descent, joined Milan in January 2013 from Manchester City and has since scored 26 goals in Serie A for the club. He featured for Italy at the recent 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, scoring once in the group stages before the Azzurri were eliminated early.
With AC Milan looking to rebuild after a disappointing campaign in which they failed to qualify for European competition, the future of high-profile players like Balotelli has been a subject of debate. But for now, it appears the striker will be staying put—at least for the start of the new season.
