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Mancini challenges Balotelli to reclaim Italy place

Roberto Mancini says Mario Balotelli remains in his Italy plans but insists it is up to the Marseille striker to prove his worth.

Balotelli has endured a turbulent campaign, failing to impress under Patrick Vieira at Nice after a reported move to Marseille collapsed prior to the 2018-19 season, before belatedly moving to the Stade Velodrome last month.

In addition, the 28-year-old's role with the national team has been similarly uncertain.

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Balotelli returned from a lengthy exile for Mancini's first game in charge, scoring in a win against Saudi Arabia, but he has not featured since a Nations League draw with Poland last September.