Tuesday, 24th May, 2011 

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has declared that Mario Balotelli can become one of the greatest players in world football – he just has to mature.

The Italian has had a season of ups and downs at Eastlands since moving to City from Inter last summer, but he has undoubtedly shown the qualities which lie within when he is on song and focused on his football.

And Mancini believes Balotelli should be cut some slack because of his tender years – he is just 20 – and once the striker matures he could rival the likes of Lionel Messi for the best player in the world accolade.


"We were all 20 once and we know what happens at that particular age", Mancini told Radio Monte Carlo.

"But I hope that Mario understands that he cannot lose more time in his career.

"If he could really understand it, he can easily become one of the strongest players in the world. This experience can help him to grow in England a lot."



   Latest Features: