MARIO BALOTELLI’S return to the Italy team has been ruined after he was racially abused by a section of his own fans.
The striker was recalled to the Italian set-up after four years by new boss Roberto Mancini and marked his comeback with a goal in the 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia.
But the 27-year-old Nice striker’s excellent display for the Azzurri was overshadowed by an offensive banner displayed by Italian fans at the game in Switzerland.
The message, which police later had removed police, read: “My captain has Italian blood.”
It looked to be aimed at the striker, who could be in line to become one of Mancini’s vice-captains after Daniele De Rossi and Gianluigi Buffon retired from international football.
But Balotelli, whose biological parents are from Ghana, hit back at the haters who tried to spoil his return to the Italian squad.
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He said on Instagram: “Guys, we’re living in 2018! Wake up! Please stop with that.”
Earlier, Balotelli took to social media to dedicate his 14th international goal to former Italy defender Davide Astori.
#grazieatuttivoi
It was Italy’s first game since the sudden death of the Fiorentina skipper in March.
He posted a picture of Astori on Instagram and said: “I know it’s late and that you’re already there…but I am convinced that you were up there watching the game with my Dad today!
“This goal, even if it might not mean anything, even if it’s no use to anyone, I dedicate it to you.”
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