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Manchester City's Mario Balotelli never deserved World Cup 2010 call up, claims former Italy coach Marcello Lippi
The 21-year-old striker has been sensational for club and country this term, but things were different last year, says the ex-Juventus boss, who refused to take him to South Africa
21 Nov 2011 17:18:00
By Salvatore Landolina
Getty Images
Former Italy coach Marcello Lippi has explained why he never took Mario Balotelli to the 2010 World Cup, saying the Manchester City striker did not deserve a place in his side.
Italy were dumped out of the tournament last year at the group stages and Lippi subsequently left his post upon the Azzurri's return to the peninsula.
The nation failed to live up to their billing as holders and questions were asked of Lippi's decisions.
"Balotelli? I said in South Africa that he would have a future with the national team, but I never picked him because he did not deserve a call," Lippi told Sky Sport Italia.
"He could not even do well for the under-21 side at the time. But now he has improved and he can become the focal point for Cesare Prandelli."
Lippi, still without a role in football after leaving his post with Italy, believes Prandelli's current generation will go far at Euro 2012.
"I like this team as it reminds me of the spirit of the group I had before World Cup 2006," he said.
Balotelli could be in action for City when they meet Napoli in their Champions League Group A clash at the San Paolo on Tuesday night.
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Italy were dumped out of the tournament last year at the group stages and Lippi subsequently left his post upon the Azzurri's return to the peninsula.
The nation failed to live up to their billing as holders and questions were asked of Lippi's decisions.
"Balotelli? I said in South Africa that he would have a future with the national team, but I never picked him because he did not deserve a call," Lippi told Sky Sport Italia.
"He could not even do well for the under-21 side at the time. But now he has improved and he can become the focal point for Cesare Prandelli."
Lippi, still without a role in football after leaving his post with Italy, believes Prandelli's current generation will go far at Euro 2012.
"I like this team as it reminds me of the spirit of the group I had before World Cup 2006," he said.
Balotelli could be in action for City when they meet Napoli in their Champions League Group A clash at the San Paolo on Tuesday night.
| Sign up with 188BET for a FREE bet up to £25 – Great Prices, Every Game |
|
| Open an account with Sportingbet today and get up to £50 in free bets! |
|
| Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25 |
|
| Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200 |
|
| Sign up with Paddy Power - Bet £10, Get £20! |
|
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