Balotelli Left Out of Italy Squad for Euro 2016 Qualifiers
Mario Balotelli has once again been left out of Italy’s national team, with head coach Antonio Conte opting not to include the striker for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Malta.
The decision marks another setback for the 24-year-old forward, who has struggled to find form since joining Liverpool from AC Milan earlier in the season.
Conte, speaking to the press after announcing his squad, was keen to frame the omission as part of a longer-term approach rather than a permanent snub.
“Mario is in a new and challenging phase of his career, and I believe he needs time to settle at Liverpool,” said the former Juventus manager. “We are following him, just as we monitor all Italian players abroad. I don’t talk about exclusions — I make selections. That’s an important distinction.”
Balotelli, who has long been one of the most polarising figures in Italian football, has yet to make a significant impact at Anfield. Despite being handed the iconic No. 45 shirt, his performances have drawn criticism, with questions raised about his work rate and ability to adapt to Liverpool’s high-intensity style under Brendan Rodgers.
Conte’s comments suggest the door remains open for Balotelli’s return, but the striker will need to convince both club and country of his readiness to contribute at the highest level.
Balotelli’s absence from the Azzurri has become a talking point among fans and pundits alike, particularly given Italy’s need for attacking firepower as they navigate a competitive Euro 2016 qualifying campaign. Once seen as a key figure in Italy’s attack — most notably during their run to the Euro 2012 final — Balotelli’s role has since diminished amid inconsistent club performances and off-field distractions.
Italy will face Azerbaijan on 10 October in Palermo, followed by a trip to Malta on 13 October. Conte is expected to rely on a mix of experienced players and emerging talent as he looks to build a cohesive squad for the tournament in France.
For now, Balotelli will be watching from a distance — and perhaps reflecting on how best to reignite his international career.
