Manchester City coach Roberto Mancini admitted in a recent interview that he is sad to see Mario Balotelli leave. On several occasions the Italian admitted Balotelli was like a son to him, although Balotelli's spell at City ended on not so good terms after his already famous training bust-up with Mancini.
Mancini had a difficult relationship with Balotelli
Mancini said : “We are not happy because I think he did well."
“Maybe not in the last three or four months because he had a big problem with injuries."
Balotelli is eager to start his AC Milan career
“But he did well because he helped the team win the Premier League and the FA Cup."
“We are sad for this but this is football. It was difficult, it was only my decision."
“I am here for the club and Mario. Also for Mario to go back to Italy to play for Milan was important."
“I believe in him and I believe to go back to Italy after two years in England is important.”
Mancini was often Balotelli's fiercest critic but only because he wanted him to succeed at Etihad stadium. In the end he admitted a transfer to Italy was for the best for all sides involved. He also revealed selling Balotelli was a bit difficult but it all went down in just a couple of days.
He added: “Until one week ago it was impossible, because we never received any offers."
“Instead in the last three days Milan started to talk with the club and did an offer."
“We thought it was good for everyone, probably, for Mario to have the chance to go back to Italy and play in a top club like Milan."
“We hope it will be important for him and for the club that can get back some money.”
City are now left with just three strikers Sergio Aguero, Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko.
