Balotelli's early departure from the tournament with a thigh injury is a heavy blow, the AC Milan striker having emerged in the last 12 months as coach Cesare Prandelli's most important attacking player. Experienced Bologna striker Alberto Gilardino is in line to deputise.

Marchisio also said that Balotelli's impressive performances during the group phase, which included goal-scoring turns against Mexico and Japan, were a sign of the 22-year-old's increasing maturity.

Italy forward Alberto Gilardino is undergoing medical exams with Genoa ahead of a likely transfer from Fiorentina.