• Premier League

Balotelli drops City tribunal case after talks

ESPN staff
December 19, 2012
Balotelli accepts fine, avoids tribunal

Manchester City have confirmed that striker Mario Balotelli has dropped his appeal against a two-week fine imposed upon him by the club.

Balotelli had taken the Premier League champions to a tribunal after they handed him a fine reported to be worth £340,000. His lawyers were set to present their case on Wednesday before an agreement between club and player was met.

City said in a brief statement: "After amicable talks between the parties, as a sign of respect for Roberto Mancini, the supporters and the club, Mario Balotelli has chosen to accept a two week fine levied upon him by the club and withdraw his disciplinary appeal, which was due to be heard by a Premier League panel today.

"Mario remains available for selection for all forthcoming fixtures."

The Italy international, who has started just seven Premier League games this season and has scored just one goal in the competition thus far, was left out of the City squad for Saturday's 3-1 win at Newcastle by manager Roberto Mancini.

That has fuelled speculation that Balotelli is set to leave the club in January, but Mancini insists that the 22-year-old still has a future at the club.

"We need to have all the players this month as we have a lot of games in two weeks. Mario needs to train," Mancini said. "I don't think he was happy about it on Saturday but, when he starts to show his quality, he will play again."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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