Mario Balotelli claims he joined Nice for football reasons, and not the south of France lifestyle

MARIO BALOTELLI claimed he joined Nice ‘purely for sport’ and not the lifestyle in the south of France or nearby Monte Carlo.

The Italian striker was unveiled by the Ligue 1 club on Friday having swapped Liverpool for the French Riviera, a picturesque part of the world along the southeastern coast.

Balotelli in his new Nice shirt[/caption]

It is famously known for its glamorous beach resorts, such as Saint-Tropez and Cannes, and for the luxury presidency of Monaco.

Balotelli, 26, arrived at Nice on transfer deadline day on a free transfer and has now started training in tropical life-style.

The famous Monaco luxury casino is located only 20 minutes away from Nice’s new stadium, which was used as a venue for the Euro 2016.

Balotelli said in Friday’s press conference: “It’s a decision for sport only. It was the best for me and Nice have a good project.

“I hope this year will be very good. For the Europa League, I play to win and it’s the same for Nice.

The Italian forward took part in his first training session with the Ligue 1 club and his attendance was welcomed by a lot of fans and journalists.

He passed his medical at Monaco instead of driving down the road to Nice, letting think he enjoys the luxury location.

Failing to materialise as a top striker at Liverpool, Balotelli has now the chance to changed his football profile with his 26 years of age.

Balotelli feels the tropical heat of Nice[/caption]

Balotelli wants to rejuvenate his career in France[/caption]

Balotelli will get back into shape with Nice[/caption]

The 26-year-old Italian the biggest name in the French league since Zlatan Ibrahimovic left Paris Saint-Germain at the end of last season managed only four goals in 28 appearances for Liverpool and spent last season on loan at AC Milan, where he found the net once in 20 league appearances.

“I’ve told Mario what I expect him to do,” Nice coach Lucien Favre said Friday. “I told him I don’t make any difference between my players, only the best play. Mario needs to get back down to work. He went through four difficult years and it will be a long-term endeavor. But he has enormous skills. When you look at his highlights, he does amazing things.”