Evra: Balotelli wants to return to Italy

Mario Balotelli wants to leave title rivals Manchester City and return to Italy, says pal Patrice Evra.

Italy forward Balotelli is wanted by both Milan clubs, with AC Milan ready to sell former Man City forward Robinho back to his native Brazil to finance his transfer fee and wages.

He has also been mentioned as a player the champions will move on if they are able to buy Liverpool's Luis Suarez in January.

The 22-year-old has not started either of City's last two games, with manager Roberto Mancini preferring Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez with Edin Dzeko appearing from the bench.

The two Manchester clubs - the top two in the Premier League - will meet at Eastlands next month in a potentially pivotal encounter.

Frenchman Evra, who speaks Italian after starting his career there, has told Italian TV that his friend would rather be back home playing in Serie A.

The Manchester United captain said of controversy-magnet Balotelli: “Mario really misses Italy.

“I don’t know if he will stay in Manchester, because he wants to return to his country. I am not his agent - I am only telling you how he feels.

“He is my rival in Manchester - I meet him a lot, I know him well. Off the pitch, we joke around and I take the micky out of him.”

City defensive coach Angelo Gregucci has praised Balotelli’s “attitude and behaviour” in his appearance for Italy this week - but could make no promises about his future.

“Mancini has chosen to give him a signal, and it is his right to make choices,” he said. “Perhaps during the last week something was missing, but Mario is ready to take back the Manchester City shirt.

“Will he stay? It’s not up to me to say. I just know that he is definitely sellable. He has 22 years of talent and quality.

“He is a resource of our football club. He will give his contribution to the national team and to City.”

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Source: DailyMirror