Former Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli is the notable omission in the 29-man Italy squad released by manager Roberto Mancini ahead of the upcoming Euro 2020 qualifiers against Finland and Lichtenstein.
Mario Balotelli plays his club football for French Ligue 1 giants Marseille where he has managed to resurrect his career after he fell out with former Arsenal skipper and Nice manager Patrick Vieira.
The Italian striker joined Marseille from Nice during the winter transfer window and he has been in very good form for his new club in the quest to qualify for Champions League next season.
Only the top three teams on the French Ligue 1 table will qualify for next season’s Champions League and Marseille currently occupy fourth spot.
Marseille are just three points off Lyon in third position.
Mario Balotelli has scored five goals in seven appearances for Marseille since his transfer in January.
It was widely believed that he will be named as one of the players for the latest squad with his good form but that proved not to be enough for Mancini.
Italy face Finland on March 23 on home soil in their debut Euro 2020 qualifier before playing lowly Lichtenstein at home three days later.
The Italians are massive favourites to win the two games.
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