‘Super Mario’ restarts in the UAE First Division after Genoa exit – aims to help struggling side avoid relegation in fresh chapter.

Mario Balotelli Al Ittifaq

Controversial Italian striker Mario Balotelli has officially joined Al Ittifaq FC in Dubai on a two-and-a-half-year contract running until June 2028. The 35-year-old free agent, who last played competitively for Genoa in December 2024, confirmed the move himself with a simple three-word Instagram message: “I’m here!” via an AI-generated video after arriving in the UAE over the weekend.

The deal marks Balotelli’s 14th club in a nomadic career spanning Italy, England, France, Switzerland, Turkey, and now the United Arab Emirates. He becomes the first major signing under new president Pietro Laterza (who also owns Serie D side Chievo), facilitated by sporting director Andrea Falco. The official registration and presentation are set for Monday, January 12, 2026.

Balotelli has been without a club since his contract with Genoa expired in the summer of 2025, following a brief and uneventful stint where he made just six substitute appearances without scoring. He had trained privately while fielding interest from Italian sides but opted for the Middle East move, citing the project’s appeal and warmer climate.

In an airport interview before departing, Balotelli expressed excitement:

“Bel progetto, fa caldo lì e qui invece fa freddo, quindi non vedo l’ora di arrivare là. Sono ancora più forte degli altri (ride).”

He also reflected on his Genoa exit, blaming a coaching change (Patrick Vieira), and dismissed retirement talks: “Qualche chiamata dall’Italia è arrivata, ma non mi andava bene… Se non avessero fatto questa scelta sarei ancora lì.”

Al Ittifaq compete in the UAE First Division (second tier, below the Pro League) and are currently bottom of the 15-team table with just six points from 11 matches, having scored only six league goals all season and won two games. The addition of “Super Mario” – known for his talent, flair, and off-field headlines – is expected to provide a much-needed goal threat and boost their fight against relegation to the third tier.

The former Inter, Manchester City, AC Milan, and Liverpool star has won major honors including the Champions League (2010 with Inter), Premier League (2012 with Man City), and reached the Euro 2012 final with Italy (scoring 14 goals in 36 caps). Despite his highs, controversies have often overshadowed his career – but at 35, Balotelli insists he’s still got plenty to offer.

Note: This Al Ittifaq is the Dubai-based UAE side, not to be confused with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq (formerly managed by Steven Gerrard).