The Italy international misses out because of the shoulder problem he suffered against Atletico Madrid, but Giampaolo Pazzini and Mattia De Sciglio are both fit to feature
AC Milan have confirmed that star striker Mario Balotelli has been ruled out of Sunday’s Serie A showdown with Juventus at San Siro.
The Italy international suffered a shoulder injury in last week’s 1-0 loss at home to Atletico Madrid and has been omitted from Clarence Seedorf’s 23-strong squad for the visit of the Italian champions.
In addition, Balotelli will play no part in his country’s friendly clash with Spain at the Vicente Calderon on Wednesday, with Milan’s focus now on getting the 23-year-old fit for the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with the Rojiblancos on March 11.
However, in a boost for the Rossoneri, veteran forward Giampaolo Pazzini has been included, after being cleared to wear a mask to protect the broken nose he suffered at Sampdoria last weekend.
Full-back Mattia De Sciglio is also available for selection after recovering from a minor ankle problem.
Milan’s eagerly-awaited meeting with Juventus is scheduled to kick off at the Giuseppe Meazza at 20:45 CET.