There are reports Mario Balotelli “apologised” to Cesare Prandelli for his behaviour on the flight home.
There are reports Mario Balotelli “apologised” to Cesare Prandelli for his behaviour on the flight home.
The squad landed in Milan’s Malpensa Airport this morning after the premature end to their World Cup campaign.
According to Sky Sport Italia, who had a journalist on the plane, Balotelli apologised to Coach Prandelli during the flight from Rio de Janeiro.
The striker was substituted at half-time during the 1-0 defeat to Uruguay amid reports of a locker-room row with Prandelli.
More details are beginning to emerge on that discussion, as it’s claimed Prandelli told Balotelli: “You are too tense and not doing the things we practiced in training. I’ll give you five minutes to show me you’re with us, otherwise I’m substituting you.”
Balotelli reacted with irritation and continued to complain, insisting he was fine, but after twice being told to be quiet, Prandelli lost his patience.
At this point, the Coach opted for an immediate substitution, introducing Marco Parolo instead.