Balotelli was dismal against Manchester United on Sunday and the temperamental forward has yet to show much of his talent under Mancini.

"Balotelli is not for sale," Mancini told Sky Sport Italia. Mario is a City player, he is loved by the fans and the management. He has been an important player for us.

"A player of his quality should think exclusively to his work and his family, he has talent and he cannot blow it as he is doing. Our paths may separate if I change team, but he will remain at City."