Balotelli had risked breaking code of conduct with suspension.
Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has confirmed that Mario Balotelli has already “served his punishment” and will be selected in his next squad.
The 23-year-old was sent off against Napoli a fortnight ago, and was handed a three-match suspension for insulting the referee and using threatening language towards an official.
The Rossoneri decided against appealing his ban, which ultimately resulted in Balotelli missing this weekend’s clash with Juventus, and Prandelli feels that punishment is enough in itself.
Prandelli introduced a code of conduct after his appointment back in 2010, which means that players who show indiscipline with their clubs will not be considered for the next Italy squad.
The likes of Daniele De Rossi and Pablo Osvaldo have previously fallen foul of the code, but Prandelli has decided that as Balotelli’s ban ends this weekend ahead of the international break, then he does not need to be punished further.
“Balotelli’s suspension expires before I name my squad and not calling him up would be a punishment beyond the punishment he has already had,” Prandelli told Rai as reported by ESPN. “Milan were exemplary by not appealing the decision.”
Prandelli went on to admit that while he was disappointed by the Milan striker’s behaviour, he has shown in his recent games the technical quality that he brings to both club and country.
The former Manchester City ace is expected to play a huge role for the Rossoneri this season despite their initial struggles this year, but ultimately for Prandelli he will form a vital part of his bid to win the World Cup in Brazil next summer.
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