Mario Balotelli Involved in Sideline Argument with Roberto Mancini

Manchester City are currently in America on their preseason tour, and after their narrow win on penalties against the LA Galaxy, Manchester City should be working out how to perfect their combinations for the upcoming season. However, it appears that City manager Roberto Mancini will have a hard job in keeping the egos of his various players in check, after Mario Balotelli disrespectfully attempted a trick shot when presented with a one-on-one opportunity against the Galaxy goaltender.

Balotelli clearly had an open path to goal, as well as Edin Dzeko to his side. Both opportunities would've most likely resulted in a goal. Rather, the youngster decided to go for glory, and in doing so failed to even hit the target. The seemingly selfish play saw manager Roberto Mancini erupt on the sideline, immediately switching Balotelli for James Milner.

By that stage in the match Balotelli had already scored a penalty and City were up 1-0. However rather than going up comfortably at 2-0, Manchester went on to concede and ultimately penalties would decide the match.

As was expected, Manchester City took the honours, yet the match proved that the attitude of Mario Balotelli has not changed. Last season he was infamously sent off against West Brom for violent conduct, and after the incident vowed to try and improve on his attitude towards the game.

There is no questions that Balotelli is a talented footballer, but many footballers have fallen from grace as a result of poor attitudes and big egos. Let us just hope that Balotelli does not prove to be such a player.

Adrian is the editor at Play the Advantage Football.