While it looked like Liverpool had seen the back of Mario Balotelli when the divisive Italian striker made a sensational return to AC Milan on a season long loan, according to his agent Mino Raiola, that might not be the case.
“Theoretically and by law, yes. He’s owned by Liverpool so at the end of the season he should go back to Liverpool.” he told Sky Sports, suggesting that his client’s time in Italy could be temporary and he could very well return to Anfield at the end of the season. “For sure,” he continued when asked if he’d be speaking with the Reds boss regarding Balotelli’s future. “That is part of my job, to speak to all the managers. I know Klopp from [representing] Henrikh Mkhitaryan at Dortmund.”
Almost a year to the date of moving to Merseyside for £16mil, Balotelli returned to the San Siro on loan for the season, but his time in Italy has been blighted by injury. Out with a groin problem since September, the 25-year old has made only four appearances — scoring one goal in the process — for AC Milan. While his injury has certainly been a factor, it looks unlikely that the Rossoneri will try to make his move permanent.
“If we talk about the quality and the talent Mario has, that is without question,” explained Raiola. “Then you also need a manager that believes in you and gives you the chance to prove yourself. We will talk to him when it is time to talk to him,” explained his agent. “Whether Klopp has a plan for him or not – I don’t know, I haven’t spoken to him about this or to Liverpool.”
