Tales of redemption are usually hard to come by in football.Once a player's character has been cast, it is often very hard for them to shake off their reputation.However, Mario Balotelli has been doing his best to subvert the narrative that has followed him around throughout his career during his impressive stint at Nice.The former Liverpool and Manchester City striker has forced his way back into the Italy set-up under Roberto Mancini by scoring 26 goals in 38 appearances last term.Granted, there have still been theatrics and moments of ill-discipline, but he has at least been talked about for what he does on the pitch rather than off it.In England, he is remembered as much for his off-the-wall behaviour - the fireworks in his house, the 'Why Always Me?' t-shirt, and his fight with Mancini - as for his Premier League winners' medal.Nonetheless, there were signs that he was up to his old tricks as Nice's pre-season training got underway.This is the start of a new era for the Ligue 1 club under Patrick Vieira, but as reported in the Daily Mail, Balotelli was nowhere to be seen at their first session.

Where is Balotelli? 

Alassane Plea was another no-show yet he later revealed his absence was due to personal reasons.

When asked in his press conference whether he had any idea as to their whereabouts, Vieira admitted:

"We were supposed to have all the players (available). Unfortunately, those two weren't there.

"We're trying to get to the bottom of it.

One reporter pressed him on Balotelli and the former New York City boss added:

"We were expecting him today. He wasn't here and it wasn't foreseen."

There is some confusion regarding the 27-year-old's situation at the club.

Although his initial two-year contract expired at the end of June, it is being widely reported that any potential suitors would have to pay Nice €10million and he was still supposed to be linking up with his team-mates on Monday.

That said, it's not entirely true that no-one knows what has become of the controversial forward.

American rapper 6ix9ine uploaded a video featuring Balotelli in the last 24 hours so it's not as if he has completely gone to ground - it's not likely to impress his new manager, though.

What do you make of Balotelli's no-show? Have your say in the comments.