Mario Balotelli Takes Manchester City To Tribunal

By Joseph Dempsey / December 17, 2012

BBC. The Italian missed eleven games last term through suspension, and his club began the disciplinary hearing against him following his red card against Arsenal in April last year, which prompted furious reactions from keeper Joe Hart and manager Mancini on the touchline. Balotelli appealed against the decision initially but was unsuccessful, and has now taken the unprecedented step in taking the club to a Premier League Tribunal. PFA Chief Executive Gordon Taylor told BBC Sport:

"We try to avoid situations like this wherever possible, but the player and club have not been able to resolve this situation."

The player is expected to appear in person, along with his lawyer and a representative from the PFA, whilst City will bring their legal team. Last season, Balotelli received nine yellow cards and three reds, and his volatile nature has left him treading on thin ice at the Etihad ever since. He has fallen out of favour with Mancini, who hauled him off just after half time in the Manchester Derby and dropped him altogether for the next game at Newcastle. He has managed only fifteen appearances this season, scoring just 3. After City's 3-1 win over Newcastle, Mancini said of his fellow Italian:

"At this moment, Mario is not in good form and for this reason he is at home. It is only for this reason. To get back into the team he needs to work in training and when he plays, he needs to play well."

This latest twist to his career could see him put on the transfer list in January, if Mancini judges him to be a distracting influence as his side bids to retain their Premier League Crown. It was reported today that Mancini has been urged by some senior players and backroom staff to cut his losses and get rid of the player.