Mario Balotelli's agent has responded to Roberto Mancini's declaration that the striker could be sold by stating he does not think it will happen.
Italian's agent quick to respond to threat of sale
Mario Balotelli's agent has responded to Roberto Mancini's declaration that the striker could be sold this summer by stating he does not think it will happen.
Mino Raiola spoke with
Sky Sports Italia in the aftermath of the latest controversy to erupt around Balotelli.
After making the front pages of many of the tabloids in the past week, Balotelli was hitting the back page headlines on Monday after being red carded in their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, which looks to have all but ended their title hopes.
Mancini reacted with anger at Balotelli's red card and general recent behaviour, suggesting he would be sold this summer and that his career could be in jeopardy.
But Raiola insists that he cannot see Balotelli being sold, despite what happened over the weekend.
"I talked with Balotelli, the boy was sorry for what happened," Raiola told
Sky Sports Italia.
No plan
"Mancini said he will be sold? I'm going to speak directly with Roberto and with the club, but I don't think they will really do it.
"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."
Raiola has been quick to deny that Balotelli's behaviour has been a premeditated plan to force a move.
"I have not seen the episode because I'm travelling so I cannot comment but I can definitely say that there isn't a market strategy. If Mario would leave England he would speak quietly with City," he said.
But he did admit that the player does still yearn for a return to his homeland.
"Does he have a future in Italy? Mario does loves Serie A and he misses Italy."
