Mario Balotelli is an important
player for Genoa, new boss Patrick Vieira said ahead of this
weekend's clash against fellow strugglers Cagliari at the
Ferraris.
"I know Mario well, he's a player and a person I've always
liked," said the Arsenal and France legend, who had the
mercurial former Italy striker under his wing at Nice.
"Even as a player he's an important player, who knows how to
score goals.
"Now he has to continue working, he's done it very well.
"Now he has to be available to the team and the club to win
matches.
"He's an important player".
Former Gunners, Juventus, Inter and Man City player and Nice,
Crystal Palace and Strasbourg tactician Vieira, 48, has found
the 34-year-old Balotelli again in Rossoblù after the experience
with several disagreements they had at Nice.
Balotelli has said he is highly motivated to shine for Genoa,
who have been hit by an injury crisis in attack.
Ex Inter, Man City, Liverpool and Ac Milan star Balotelli played
in Turkey for Adana Demirspor last season.
The former Super Mario last played in Serie A in an ill-fated
spell for Brescia in 2019-20.
Vieira came in for former Milan and Italy forward Alberto
Gilardino who was sacked last week.
The 42-year-old had been in charge of Genoa for two years and
led them to promotion from Serie B in the 2022-23 campaign
before guiding them to safety last season.
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