By Salvatore Landolina
25 Mar 2011 18:13:00
Prandelli & Balotelli – Italy (Getty Images)
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Cesare Prandelli has issued a message of hope and reconciliation to troubled Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli, and has asked the 20-year-old to “reflect on his errors”.
The Italy coach excluded the player from the Azzurri squad for Friday’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Slovenia following his sending off for Manchester City in the Europa League – conduct which failed to pass the stringent code of ethics designed by la Nazionale’s boss.
Prandelli told Rai Sport: “It is important for Mario to reflect on his errors. He has gone through his mistake, and he is sorry.
“He has asked for help and we will be close to him so he can grow.”
Prandelli spoke of the trip to Slovenia, a clash in which he expects a combative game from his side.
He added: “It will be a difficult match. Slovenia have balance in their side, so it’s a tough test, but we are ready.”
Balotelli’s troubled start to life in the Premier League has been reflected in his positioning in the Castrol EDGE Rankings. The Italian is rated as only the 1267th best player in the world.
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Mario Balotelli needs to ‘reflect on his errors’ – Italy coach Cesare Prandelli