Nice manager Vieira 'surprised, disappointed' by Balotelli's behaviour

OGC Nice manager Patrick Vieira is surprised and disappointed by the conduct of striker Mario Balotelli.

The Italian forward has been absent from preseason training under Vieira, who took charge of the club in June, and is reportedly in talks with fellow Ligue 1 side Marseille about a move.

"I'm surprised, yes, and disappointed, yes," Vieira told RMC Sport, as translated by Football Italia.

"Mario had two very good years at Nice and it's a shame it's ending like this. If the player wants to leave then that's his choice, but it's important for him to come, be here and respect his contract, then let the two clubs discuss a way to finalise all that.

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"We have some players here who are in that situation, and these players are present at training and waiting for the clubs to finalise things. Players make the choice to go to certain clubs, we have to accept that: it's football. In any case, though, Nice have to come out of this situation well, getting what they deserve. It's important to respect the club and do things in the best way possible."

Balotelli and controversial conduct have not been unfamiliar partners throughout his career. The 27-year-old seemed to mature during his time in France, but it appears he's now decided to force the issue and pursue a move to Stade Velodrome.

The striker has scored 43 goals in 66 games across two seasons at Nice. Losing him would be a tough pill to swallow for Vieira, particularly if fellow forward Alassane Plea also leaves this summer.