The potential transfer of Mario Balotelli to Genoa remains in limbo. The 34-year-old striker, currently a free agent after his last stint with Adana Demirspor in Turkey, is eager to return to Serie A and awaits a final decision from the club.
Genoa, currently struggling in 18th place with only 5 goals scored in their first 7 Serie A matches, are seeking offensive reinforcements. Balotelli’s candidacy came at an opportune moment, but the deal has been put on hold, leaving the former Italian international in a state of uncertainty.
Balotelli’s agent, Enzo Raiola, confirmed the situation to Radio Sportiva: “I have the fortune of knowing Zangrillo and have long known that he’s a great admirer of Mario. Bringing him to the club he presides over would be a great pleasure for him. Today we’re in a waiting situation from Genoa’s technical direction. We know what Mario can offer, he’s ready, charged up, and can’t wait. We hope this marriage can happen soon. Certainly, after the match against Bologna, we’ll understand if it can be concluded or not.”
The deal’s delay stems from several factors, including Gilardino’s precarious position as manager, the club’s financial difficulties, conflicting opinions within the organization, and the recent arrival of Gaston Pereiro to address the offensive shortcomings.
Genoa’s sporting director, Marco Ottolini, explained to Goodmorninggenoa.org: “We’re aware that the momentary halt in Balotelli’s transfer has sparked discontent among fans, but the club’s intent is to create maximum participation and support around the environment, players, and manager. We confirm the choice to evaluate him after the Bologna match, to potentially integrate him professionally and with the right timing, without throwing him into the fray immediately.”
The club’s CEO, Andres Blazquez, emphasized to Il Secolo XIX that the decision to wait was purely technical: “As Marco Ottolini and Marco Rossi have already explained, it was a decision taken by the technical area and has purely technical motivations.”
