Balotelli sorry and eager to stick with City
WAYWARD Manchester City star Mario Balotelli last night apologised for the latest low point in his rollercoaster career and insisted he still “loves” manager Roberto Mancini.
Balotelli’s red card in Sunday’s defeat at Arsenal, a match that appeared to end City’s hopes of winning the Premier League, prompted Mancini to admit he intends to sell the striker, but the 21-year-old has not given up hope of staying.
“I’m really sorry for what happened, for the disappointment I’ve given to Man City and, particularly, to Roberto Mancini, for whom I have a great respect and who I love,” he said. “As for my future, we will see at the end of the season. I’ll talk with the club and we will see.”
Balotelli’s agent Mino Raiola earlier said: “Mario’s intention is to remain in England and he has a contract with City. I understand they may be angry for the title which has eluded them, but, I repeat, I don’t think so.”
Mancini replied “probably” when asked if Balotelli would be offloaded in the summer, following his fourth red card in less than two full seasons at City.
The £24m star could be banned for the rest of the season, if the Football Association review his high tackle on Alex Song, which did not earn a booking on Sunday.