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Many great coaches have tried and FAILED to change Liverpool's Mario Balotelli, says Conte
ITALY boss Antonio Conte says greater coaches than him have tried and failed to change Mario Balotelli.
Mario Balotelli could find himself out of the Italy picture
Conte has expressed concern about the work ethic of some of the younger players in his squad, and singled out Balotelli as one player in particular who needs a change of attitude.
Indeed, the former Juve boss has hinted that Balotelli could find himself permanently out of his plans unless he shapes up fast.
Speaking ahead of Italy's friendly against Albania, he said: “I'm not so arrogant as to claim that I'm different from the great coaches, but the past tells us that they failed to change Balotelli.
“It'll be up to the player, but I don't have much time and I need certain things.”
Speaking to Rai Sport he added: “I am aware that Italian football isn't heading in the right direction.
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It'll be up to the player, but I don't have much time and I need certain things.
“We must come to terms with this and then turn words into actions.
“I was convinced I would find more involvement, but instead some young players do not have the desire to work.
“If it continues at this rate then it will be just the beginning of a decline.
“When I was at Juventus I thought only of my club, but from this position I see things that I do not like.”
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