Nice striker Mario Balotelli will remain with the Ligue 1 side despite a summer of controversy with the player reportedly denied a transfer to rivals Marseille.
The 28 year-old has rediscovered the form of his earlier career with the French side, scoring 43 goals in 66 appearances and earning a return to the Italian national team squad.
Having looked to be on his way out, Nice have announced that the Italian would be remaining with the squad despite an alleged transfer to Marseille seeming inevitable.
Nice were open in their statement about the approach of a French rival for the services of Balotelli, who was absent for the club’s pre-season training.
However it would appear Balotelli and his agent Mino Raiola have been able to ease the tension between club and player in recent weeks.
Balotelli is expected to be available to coach Patrick Vieira when Nice face Lyon, having previously been suspended.
