It was announced this week that the former AC Milan striker had agreed terms over a long-term deal with Al-Ittifaq.
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Due in Dubai today, Balotelli spoke to reporters from Bergamo airport before jetting off this morning.
He said, "We've had a few calls from Italy, and we've tried to negotiate. But I think football has changed. There are other players, other young players, and it's right that they get some space too.
"At 35, I'm still better than the others (laughs), but it's right that they also get some space for the national team, to which I wish the best."
While waiting for his boarding call, Balotelli was happy to pose with an Al-Ittifaq (see below).