Balotelli apologises to Prandelli and Mancin

Mario Balotelli has publicly apologised to Italy coach Cesare Prandelli and Manchester Cityboss Roberto Mancini for his dismissal in Sunday's Premier League defeat by Arsenal.The striker saw red in the closing stages of the 1-0 loss at the Emirates and his latest sending-off has cast further doubt over his mental stability, as well as his future with both his current employers and the Azzurri.


Consequently, Balotelli, who was axed from the Italy squad for the February friendly against the United States because of his "agitated" behaviour, is now seeking forgiveness in the hope that he will still be given the opportunity to represent his country in Euro 2012.

"I want so much to be recalled to the national team; for me this is the most important thing," the enigmatic forward told ANSA through his agent, Mino Raiola.

"I hope to be back in blue in April. I have already lost out on a call-up to the national team once. I don't want to do it for a second time.

"I am very sorry for what happened, for disappointing Manchester City and in particular Roberto Mancini, whom I respect and whom I love."

Mancini has already revealed that City will "probably" try to sell Balotelli at the end of the season, while Prandelli plans to "calmly evaluate" whether to recall the former Inter striker before Euro 2012.