• Premier League

Mancini happy to take another chance on Balotelli

ESPN staff
April 13, 2012
Roberto Mancini is ready to forgive Mario Balotelli - again © PA Photos
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Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has offered Mario Balotelli an immediate route back into his first-team plans, just days after suggesting the Italian could leave in the summer.

Mancini was left outraged by his compatriot's embarrassing display against Arsenal last Sunday - which saw Balotelli sent off after an ineffectual performance in a game that the Gunners went on to win.

But, after previously allowing Carlos Tevez back into the team after stating he would never play for the club again, Mancini has now made another U-turn in suggesting that Balotelli could yet have a long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.

"If he wants to stay, he can stay - but he needs to change in his mind," Mancini said. "I don't change him. I spoke with Mario a lot of times about this. Ten years here with me might be impossible, but he can stay here two years, three years, more ... if he changes his behaviour. It is important."

Prior to Mancini's news conference, Balotelli's agent Mino Raiola suggested that player and manager had cleared the air.

"I am in Manchester but not for any transfer business. I have talked with Mario and Mancini, there was a moment of tension but now the situation is calmer," Raiola told Sky Italia TV. "Mario has understood his errors, he is special in every way, sometimes he makes mistakes without meaning to. There is enormous pressure from the fans on Mario but Manchester City do not intend to sell him.

"He must grow here then in one or two years, we'll see."

Former Italy national team coach Marcello Lippi believes teams will continue to take risks on Balotelli while his talent is evident.

"I hope that he [Balotelli] will wake up soon. He'd be better off letting his talent on the field speak for itself," Lippi told World Football. "He could play in any club in the world. Because of his ability he'll be in much demand.

"I think Mancini looked after him almost as a father would and it's a pity he hasn't realised just how many great things he could achieve."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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