Balotelli attitude slammed by Nice team-mate Dante

A 1-0 defeat to Montpellier on Saturday left Nice 14th in Ligue 1, with Balotelli struggling for form and fitness after missing a large chunk of pre-season as he tried to force through a move to Marseille.

Speaking following that defeat, Dante warned the Italian that he must improve and sharpish.

"It's up to him to step up and take charge in attack, to take on some responsibility.

"He's not in great shape physically, we know that, but it's up to him to work and train to improve his fitness levels.

"At some point, he simply has to take control of the situation.

"There's no point blaming the team and saying we don't get the best out of his qualities. No!

"There were times when the team didn't play so well and I defended them, but we must always be self-critical and question ourselves at every turn to make sure we're doing our best."