Mario Balotelli to stay with Nice for 2018-19 season

Posted Tuesday, August 21, 2018 by Goal.com

The Italy striker has rebuilt his career at the Ligue 1 side since joining in 2016, and, despite rumours, will remain with them for another year

Nice have confirmed that striker Mario Balotelli will remain with them for the 2018-19 season.

The forward's place at the club appeared in jeopardy when he failed to show on time for pre-season training, leading to harsh words from new head coach Patrick Vieira.

Throughout the summer, the Italy international was linked to a plethora of clubs, including Marseille and Napoli, but the Ligue 1 outfit have confirmed he will stay with them for the present campaign.

A statement on their official website reads: "Mario Balotelli will be Nice this season. The club and the number 9 have confirmed that they will continue their adventure together in 2018-19.

"The decision is made. Mario Balotelli has chosen to stay at OGC Nice. The 28-year-old Italian international has expressed this desire to the Nice board. There will be a season three to the hit series. The agreement was endorsed by all parties on Monday night."

Balotelli joined Nice in 2016, in the midst of what appeared to be a career nadir following a disastrous spell in the Premier League with Liverpool.

He spent the season prior to his arrival in Ligue 1 back out on loan at old club Milan in Serie A but he only managed to muster seven goals in 51 appearances between the two sides.

Upon signing for Nice, Balotelli turned his fortunes around and helped them to their first top-three finish in Ligue 1 since 1976 during his inaugural campaign.

Across the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, he has made 66 appearances for the club, scoring 43 times.

Nice next face unbeaten Dijon on August 25 as they seek their first Ligue 1 win of the season.