Italy legend Andrea Pirlo has insisted that Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli can still turn his career around, pleading with him not to take any offers from the Chinese Super League this summer.
The flamboyant 25-year-old looks to be on his way out of Anfield this summer if the club can find a buyer for him, having spent last season back in Italy on an unsuccessful loan spell with Milan.
Pirlo talked fondly of his former Italy teammate though, telling the Mirror: “He frustrates me, but I do have so much affection for Mario. He is infectious to be around.
“When I used to see him walk into training for Italy, he would have this big smile on his face – and I would just burst out laughing – and start wondering what is he thinking, what is he up to?
“Mario should not just be a character the media write about for good stories. We shouldn’t forget what a special player he is.