Mario Balotelli has apologised for his dismissal at the weekend in an effort to not jeopardise his place at Euro 2012.
Mario Balotelli has apologised for his dismissal at the weekend in an effort to not jeopardise his place at Euro 2012.
The Manchester City player was sent-off in the defeat against Arsenal for two book-able offences. He was also criticised for a high-tackle on Alex Song which went unpunished by the referee.
Balotelli has now said sorry to his club for his actions, as well as also insisting that he has not broken the code of ethics employed by Italy boss Cesare Prandelli.
“I’m very sorry for what happened and for the disappointment caused to Manchester City, and especially to manager Roberto Mancini, who I admire and wish well,” the striker noted in a statement to ANSA.
“I didn't break Italy’s code of ethics,” he continued. “I already missed out on the national team for foolishness and I wouldn’t do it a second time.
“I am very attached to the national team, but I committed two fouls in the course of action, not by reaction.
“I hope to be there at the Italy training camp in April. Let’s wait for the final verdict of the ban.”
Balotelli was omitted from the Azzurri squad for February’s 1-0 loss to America as punishment for his stamp on Tottenham’s Scott Parker.
Prandelli yesterday seemed to suggest that Balotelli’s latest red card would not be punished by him, although some quotes being attributed to the tactician on Tuesday are now claiming that he’ll view the video evidence.
The 21-year-old is today also being linked with a summer return to Italy after Mancini intimated that the boy’s time in Manchester was up.
“We’ll consider my future at the end of the season,” Balotelli noted. “I will talk to the club and then we will see.”
Balotelli’s season at domestic level could now be over depending on what suspension he is given by the footballing authorities in England.