Mancini tips Balotelli for international success

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini says Mario Balotelli is the future of the Italian national team, and thinks the striker can one day lead his country.

Balotelli, 21, has been in sensational form for City this term, scoring a penalty in their recent 3-0 win over Villarreal in the Champions League to add to his five goals from six Premier League matches.

Mancini feels the Italy international is showing great levels of progression, and believes he will continue to excel for club and country.

“Can Balotelli carry the national team on his shoulders? He is young still, and so I think another player with more experience can take that role, but I feel Mario is already feeling more responsible for the Italy situation,” Mancini told La Stampa.

“I think Mario will continue giving more than what he has been able to thus far and he has developed in every aspect.”