Massimiliano Allegri has admitted that he would welcome the opportunity to work with Mario Balotelli.
Milan coach fuels speculation linking City striker with return to Italy
AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has admitted that he would welcome the opportunity to work with Mario Balotelli.
The Italy international continues to be linked with a return to his homeland after struggling to settle at Manchester City.
He has put in a number of decent showings, including bagging a hat-trick against Aston Villa on Tuesday, but has countered them with a selection of lacklustre performances.
Homesickness has been blamed for his dour demeanour in England, with the 20-year-old reportedly pining for a return to Serie A.
AC Milan are believed to be his favoured destination, despite the fact that he graduated through the academy ranks at their cross-city rivals Inter.
Speculation suggesting he could soon be on his way back to Giuseppe Meazza refuses to go away and the latest comments from Allegri have done little to curb the rumours.
"I would willingly coach Balotelli," he said.
"But it would be difficult given that we have so many champions in our team."
Desire
Among those currently vying for a striking berth at Milan is new signing Antonio Cassano, who will officially complete his switch from Sampdoria in the New Year.
Allegri has been impressed by the forward's attitude at a winter training camp in Dubai and is convinced the talented 28-year-old will prove to be a shrewd acquisition.
"I appreciate his desire to put himself at the complete disposition of the team and myself," said the Milan boss.
"The spirit of sacrifice that he has shown has surprised me more than his talent.
"If you are not made in a certain way, you can't be a Milan player."
