Italy national team boss Antonio Conte believes that a player’s behaviour as a man is more important than their talent on the pitch and wants Mario Balotelli to improve his attitude.
The 24-year-old, who just recently arrived at Liverpool after an inconsistent run at AC Milan, has been known for his controversial behaviour both on and off of the field and Conte wants the striker to develop the proper mentality in order to earn a definite spot with the Azzurri.
Conte spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport about Balotelli’s need to mature more as a man, while also commenting on several other players he may like to include in his Italy squad ahead the UEFA Euro 2016 qualifiers in September.
“Balotelli? The man is more important than the footballer, talent is secondary,” said the tactician. “First you’ve got to sacrifice yourself to the squad.
“I want two forwards who can be harmful on the wings, I’m thinking maybe Stephan El Shaarawy and Antonio Candreva.
“Lorenzo Insigne has great talent, he’s brilliant in one-on-one situations. He can still grow a lot, but it’s not easy for one to play in their own city.
“Whoever joins the national team must deserve to stay there.”
