Balotelli should stay put, says Mancini

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini expects Mario Balotelli to build a long career in the Premier League before returning home to Italy.

Balotelli is back in the City squad for Wednesday’s Champions League match against Villarreal having missed his side’s first three matches in the competition due to a carry-over suspension from last season.

The Italian has been in a great spell of form recently, scoring five times in his last six matches, and will hope to feature against the Spaniards in a match City need to win if they are to keep the pressure on chief group rivals Bayern Munich and Napoli.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Mancini said Balotelli could be a key player for the side in the long run.

“He can be an important player for us this time,” Mancini told reporters. “He’s young and has already played many important games for us.”

“I have known him since he was a lad. I launched his career at Inter and I wanted him here with me at City. He senses my trust. He is always very polite. Let’s not forget he is 21 and it’s not easy to be an icon.”

“Technically he does not have to envy anyone but he does need to improve his attitude.”

Mancini revealed Balotelli has been courted by several Serie A sides but does not expect the Italian international to leave Etihad Stadium in the foreseeable future.

“One day he will return to Italy, but not for a few years.”

“Playing at City will do him good. In the summer we had lots of interest from him from Italian clubs but we’re not giving anyone away.”