Mario Balotelli’s next chapter leads to Dubai

A deal confirmed

According to Italian transfer journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Mario Balotelli has signed a two and a half year contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Ittifaq. The agreement has been completed, allowing the striker to join the club immediately, although no financial details have been made public.

The move brings the former Italy international back into the spotlight after a period spent moving between short term projects across Europe and beyond. At 34, Balotelli is once again opting for a fresh start away from the continent where his reputation was forged.

Another turn in an unpredictable career

Balotelli was once viewed as one of the most naturally gifted forwards Italy had produced in a generation. His career has included spells at Inter Milan, Manchester City and AC Milan, combining decisive moments on the pitch with frequent changes off it.

In recent years, he has struggled to find long term stability, often joining clubs on brief deals as he searched for continuity. Di Marzio reported that the length of this contract represents a more sustained commitment than several of his recent moves.

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A wider Gulf trend

Balotelli’s arrival adds to a growing list of established European players choosing the Gulf region in the later stages of their careers. Clubs in Saudi Arabia have increasingly targeted high profile names, offering extended contracts and prominent roles within ambitious sporting projects.

For Al Ittifaq, the signing delivers experience and global attention. For Balotelli, it represents another attempt to redefine how his career will ultimately be remembered.

Sources, Gianluca Di Marzio

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