Italian midfielder Mario Balotelli on ‘socially destructive’ behaviour in game

The Italy international was called into action to stop the dangerous behaviour of the Juventus midfielder Mario Malinzano, who was fouled in the first half by Mario Balotelli.

The pair met for the first time this season, but the match in Turin ended with both players being sent off, as Malinzzano got a yellow card for a challenge on Balotella.

Juventus have been punished for the clash with the Italian national team and the team captain has been banned for the next two games.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has also issued a warning to all Italian footballers for what it says are ‘disrespectful behaviour’.

The refereeing panel have also called in an expert to analyse the incident.