Balotelli training with Chievo after war prevents return to Al-Ittifaq

Former Italy star Mario Balotelli is having to reconsider his career path, as he cannot currently fly back to Dubai to play for Al-Ittifaq, so is training with Chievo Verona.

The 35-year-old had been a free agent when his contract with Genoa was allowed to expire, and decided to continue his career in the Middle East when signing for Al-Ittifaq on January 13.

It has been fraught with problems, as he reported receiving racist abuse during a friendly match, which are the only games he has been able to play, as the UAE league is currently on a break.

No Dubai return possible for Balotelli

Balotelli had reportedly been visiting his brother Enock in Italy last week, so was not in Dubai when it got dragged into the spreading unrest in the Middle East.

Now all flights to Dubai are suspended due to security concerns, so he is stuck in Italy.

According to L’Arena newspaper, Balotelli turned up this morning to train with Chievo Verona.

This is because the former Serie A club, which went bankrupt recently and had to start again from the amateur divisions, is also owned by the same patron as Al-Ittifaq.

He is now training with the squad, which includes former Juventus man Douglas Costa and ex-Milan player Alberto Paloschi, to stay in shape.

Balotelli could even be asked to participate in a friendly match on Saturday, but he cannot yet play for Chievo in competitive Serie D games without an official transfer.