Roberto Mancini admits Mario Balotelli isn't listening to him - but doesn't mind if he keeps scoring.
Blues boss admits Balotelli is ignoring his advice
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has admitted he is not getting through to Mario Balotelli.
Although there is no doubt over Balotelli's ability, the surly striker was criticised for his poor attitude and work-rate at former club Inter Milan and frequently clashed with Jose Mourinho when he was in charge of the Italian champions.
City were willing to splash out £24million on Balotelli last summer as it was thought Mancini would be able to rein in the enigmatic 20-year-old having handed him his Inter debut in 2007.
But the Italy international continues to show petulance on pitch, demonstrating his frustration with his team-mates while even arguing with Mancini during recent matches while the former Inter coach has been giving touchline instructions.
"He is not listening to me," admitted Mancini. "I speak but I don't think he listens."
Although Balotelli scored the only goal in last week's 1-1 draw with Fulham, the Blues boss was unhappy with his performance, saying he was not playing for the team.
Quality
Balotelli then put in a much-improved performance as a lone striker in the FA Cup tie with Aston Villa on Wednesday and produced a cool finish in the 3-0 win for his 10th goal of the season.
Mancini has revealed the turn-around owed little to his man-management but claims he doesn't care as long as Balotelli keeps scoring.
"It is not important that he doesn't listen to me," Mancini explained.
"What is important is that he does well, that he scores.
"But I know he can do better because I know his quality. He can change every game if he wants. He could score in every game.
"I hope, for him and us, he can understand this very quickly."
Balotelli is set to remain in the City attack for Saturday's home game against Wigan.
