Mario Balotelli says Nice are not taking a ‘risk’ in signing him

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Mario Balotelli has told his new club Nice that they haven’t taken a ‘risk’ in signing him.

Balotelli signed for the Ligue 1 side on Wednesday after leaving Liverpool on a free transfer.

The striker was introduced to the French media for the first time on Friday and he started by addressing concerns some supporters may have expressed about his arrival.

‘The career that I have had, it’s different to what has been written in the press,’ Balotelli said, who was also joined by new signing Younes Belhanda.

‘To me I don’t represent a risk. I have had fitness problems, but a risk? No!’

The striker, has joined Nice on a one-year contract, which is reportedly worth £3.8million a year. Mino Raiola, the player’s agent, was also present at Friday’s press conference.

Balotelli has revealed how happy he is to be with Nice after signing on Wednesday

Balotelli’s agent Mino Raiola was also present at the press conference on Friday

The 26-year-old took part in his second training session for Nice on Friday afternoon

Nice’s club president, Jean-Pierre Rivere, insisted that he didn’t think the club had made a mistake by signing Balotelli.

‘We know the risk we are taking, but it’s one I take with pleasure,’ he said.

The 26-year-old made 16 appearances during the two years he was contracted to Liverpool, scoring just once.

The striker says he wants to reward Nice for taking a chance on him and giving him a contract

He moved on loan to AC Milan twice but endured a difficult time due to persistent injuries and a lack of form.

During his time in England – particularly when he was at Manchester City – he regularly hit the headlines with stories regarding his private life.

One journalist at Friday’s press conference asked Balotelli whether his reputation and lifestyle may interrupt matters on the pitch once again.

He responded by not wanting to answer questions about what he did away from the pitch

The striker’s one-year deal at Nice is reportedly worth £3.8million per year

‘I prefer not to hear that question,’ he replied.

‘My priority was to play. I spoke to the coach (Lucien Favre) and he really wanted me. I hope that this year will be very good. That’s all!’

Lucien Favre, who has been in charge at Nice since May, spoke of his satisfaction in getting Balotelli to join his side.

The Italian will be available for Nice’s next fixture against Marseille on September 11

‘He has enormous qualities. I have seen clips of his best moments and it was impressive, but this is a long-term job,’ said Swiss coach Favre.

‘Everything will depend on how willing he is. His fitness is the basis. Otherwise, I have no doubts about his technical ability.’

The Italian is available for Nice’s league game against Marseille on September 11