Mario Balotelli getting 'to know' himself better as ex-Man City & Liverpool striker serves community service order following car crash while he searches for new club

Balotelli has completed a six-month community service program after a car accident that occurred in November 2023. The former Inter and AC Milan striker lost control of his vehicle on November 23, 2023 and subsequently refused to undergo a breathalyser test. As a result, his driver’s license was revoked.

In lieu of formal sentencing, Balotelli's legal team negotiated a restorative justice agreement. Under the terms, the Italian footballer fulfilled a 40-hour probationary period by volunteering with Bimbo Chiama Bimbo, a child welfare association based in Brescia. During his time with the organisation, Balotelli engaged with young children through games and recreational activities.

Speaking to Il Giornale di Brescia, Balotettli said: "It was a very positive experience which allowed me to get to know myself better and improve as a person. I was very welcomed by the educators and everyone who works at the association."

Once heralded as the next big thing in football following spells at Inter, Man City, AC Milan, and Liverpool, Balotelli failed to fulfill his potential due to his questionable attitude and long spells of inconsistency. After scoring more goals in Ligue 1 and Turkey's Super Lig, he returned to Serie A in October 2024, joining Genoa as a free agent and reuniting with Patrick Vieira. However, the former Crystal Palace boss banished him from his squad, reigniting their feud from their time together at Nice, with the 35-year-old managing only 56 minutes in six games throughout the season.

Over the summer, there were reports which stated that he was offered a unique contract by Spanish third-tier side Real Murcia. The Palermo-born player has also confirmed that he aims to play for a club that will trust him for "the next two to three years" before he can join his brother Enoch Barwuah in the lower leagues to Italy and retire together.