Advertisement
PA
Contrition

Balotelli apologises for getting himself sent off against Arsenal

The Italian has spoken of his love for Roberto Mancini but says he’ll decide about his future at the end of the season.

MARIO BALOTELLI HAS apologised for the red card against Arsenal that has threatened to end his career at Manchester City.

The 21-year-old saw red for two bookable offences in the defeat to the Gunners, but worse still was a scything first half tackle on Alex Song that referee Martin Atkinson missed.

Balotelli could face an even lengthier ban as a result of that tackle and City boss Roberto Mancini has indicated that he does not intend to pick his fellow Italian again this season, regardless of whether he is eligible or not.

Mancini also admitted after the game that he would ‘probably’ look to sell the striker in the summer.

“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,” Balotelli told Ansa news agency.

“As for my future, we will see at the end of the season. I’ll talk with the club and we will see.”

The former Inter Milan star is worried that his antics will cost him a place in Cesare Prandelli’s Italy squad for the European Championships.

Prandelli dropped Balotelli for the February friendly against the USA after he was hit with a domestic ban for stamping on Tottenham’s Scott Parker in January.

He added: “I’m really keen to play for the national team. I made two fouls in the game. I’ve already lost out on the national team for one bad thing, I wouldn’t do it for a second time.”

In The Swing – All hail Bubba >

Your Voice
Readers Comments
4
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.