Former Italy star Mario Balotelli is being forced to reconsider his career path as he is currently unable to travel to Dubai to play with Al-Ittifaq, so he is training with Chievo Verona.
The 35-year-old was a free agent after his contract with Genoa expired, and decided to continue his career in the Middle East by signing with Al-Ittifaq on January 13.
The period has been difficult, as he reported receiving racist abuse during a friendly match – the only type of match he has been able to play in, as the UAE league is currently on break.
Balotelli had been visiting his brother, Enock, in Italy last week, so was not in Dubai when the region became embroiled in unrest in the Middle East.
Now, all flights to Dubai have been suspended due to security concerns, so he remains in Italy.
According to the newspaper "L'Arena", Balotelli showed up this morning to train with Chievo Verona.
The former Serie A club, which recently went bankrupt and must start from the amateur divisions, is also owned by the same patron as Al-Ittifaq.
He is training with the squad, which includes former Juventus player Douglas Costa and former Milan defender Alberto Paloschi, to stay fit.
Balotelli could also be invited to take part in a friendly match on Saturday, but he is still unable to play for Chievo in competitive Serie D matches without an official transfer./Express newspaper/
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