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Balotelli agent hints at City, England exit

Comment: 0 January 25th, 2012 by: admin

Mario Balotelli leaving Manchester City and England could be possible if he continues to receive harsh, undeserved punishment for his recent actions, warned the striker’s agent.

The controversial player, known for his on- and off-the-field antics, was recently handed a four-match suspension as video footage showed him stomp on the head of Tottenham Hotspur’s Scott Parker during the squads’ Premier League match Sunday.

According to Mino Raiola, the Italian’s agent, it is crucial for the footballing authorities to either defend him or reconsider their sentence if they want him to remain in the team, and in the league.

“The FA must defend Mario, otherwise he may think of leaving England,” said Raiola.  “Mario can’t be banned for four games.  It was not an intentional foul.

“Mario doesn’t want to hurt anyone, he didn’t see Parker, that’s all.”

Raiola continued to point out an apparent double-standard that sees international players receive more stringent backlash compared to English players during serious incidents.

“I’m worried because when English players are involved in more serious things, they are treated harder,” Raiola pointed out.  “Whereas when foreigners are involved, such as Balotelli, my duty is to protect and take him away.

“In this case, I’d speak with City, ask them his price and look for the best team for him, as there are only six or seven clubs he can play for.”

Although the agent assured that the striker still plans to stay with his current club, incidents that put him under intense scrutiny cause significant stress.

“I talked to Mario, he is happy to stay but he doesn’t understand certain things, they sadden him,” he said.

Reports indicate that no support seems to be coming from City, who refuse to appeal the ban for the controversial incident with Parker.

“Whichever way you put it,” said club assistant manager David Platt, “it doesn’t look good.”

Raiola also had some harsh words for referee Howard Webb, whose suspension the agent called for as he accused the official of lying by claiming he did not witness what happened.

“The TV images show he is really close, how can he say he didn’t see it?” the agent said.  “It’s only to defend himself.  The ref was a coward.  In the Premier League there are absurd rules.”

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