Balotelli says he 'lost a big opportunity' to play in another World Cup with Italy out

Roberto Mancini's side lost 1-0 to underdogs North Macedonia in the play-offs, confirming Italy's absence from the competition for the second time in a row.

Italy's last time at the tournament was back in Brazil in 2014 with former Manchester City and Liverpool striker Balotelli part of Cesare Prandelli's side who were eliminated in the group stage, along with England.

Although the competition was one to forget for Italy, Balotelli described his first World Cup as a 'wonderful sensation' having netted in their 2-1 win over the Three Lions.

It seems the ex-Inter Milan man, who has 14 goals for his country, was still clinging on to the hope of achieving World Cup glory, despite not making any appearance for Azzurri since September 2018.

Speaking to Sky Sports Italia following Italy's knockout, Balotelli said: "It hurts.

"But the matter is not the call-up against North Macedonia or Turkey. The World Cup is in December and I could have been part of the team.

"I think I had a chance and I've lost an important opportunity. To see Italy out of the World Cup is too bad.

"I am only missing when Italy lose. It's easy to say it now because, before the match, nobody was thinking about me.

"I watched the match against North Macedonia, we had some good chances. I am quite good in front of the goal. It doesn't mean we'd win with me on the pitch, but we'd had good chances to score."

When asked if he believed former City boss Mancini was still the man for the job, Balotelli gave the national team manager a glowing review despite his disappointment regarding Qatar.

"I haven't spoken to him yet, but I have affection for him," admitted the 31-year-old.

"I am happy that he will remain in charge because he has already won the Euros. People are disappointed, but we can't forget what the coach has achieved.

"Italy have a strong team, but nobody expected us to become European champions. Mancini deserves to stay."