Mario Balotelli’s hopes of being part of the Italian squad for the Euro 2016 tournament have been dealt a cold blow by Azzurri coach Antonio Conte.
The AC Milan striker posted his excitement on Instagram alongside a picture of the final draw, however Conte was quick to dampen the mood.
In response to the 25-year-old posting, “I can not wait”, the former Juventus coach responded with a question of his own.
“He cannot wait for what; To play them or see them on television?” he asked the reporters at the Euro 2016 draw.
“It’s up to him as it is to everyone else but he has so much to prove.
“I’ll look at everyone carefully as there is always space but I know who brought us this far and know the players well.”
Balotelli remains on the sidelines for AC Milan having only made three Serie A appearances this year.
A recall to the Italian squad looks increasingly unlikely for Liverpool owned striker, despite starring in the Euro 2012 finals as Italy’s top goalscorer.
