Rio de Janeiro: Flamengo head coach Jorge Jesus said Mario Balotelli would ‘avenge himself’ in Brazil if the Italian striker decides to join the Rio de Janeiro club. Flamengo last week made public their desire to sign the enigmatic 28-year-old, who is a free agent after parting ways with Marseille in June.
“Mario would be welcomed by any manager in Europe. Somebody like Balotelli, if he comes, would avenge himself in Brazil because of his quality,” Jesus said in an interview published by South American football confederation CONMEBOL on Friday.
Balotelli’s arrival would follow a series of high profile signings by Flamengo this year, including former Bayern Munich right-back Rafinha and ex-Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis. The club also secured Inter Milan striker Gabriel Barbosa on loan in January.
Despite ongoing speculation surrounding Balotelli, Jesus revealed he is not optimistic about a deal with the former Inter Milan, Manchester City, AC Milan and Liverpool player.
“I want a No. 9 but as the days pass I’m realizing that it might not be possible, even with all the talk about Mario Balotelli,” Jesus said. “It’s fundamental for our objectives to have a central striker.” IANS