MANCHESTER: Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has backed Mario Balotelli to become a great player at AC Milan now that he has ended his time in the Premier League.

Balotelli, 22, joined the Serie A giants for a reported £19 million ($30.1 million; 22.2 million euros) fee this week after two-and-a-half eventful years at the Etihad Stadium.

The striker was involved in training ground bust-ups and off-field incidents including fireworks being set off in his home, while also showing flashes of brilliance on the pitch in helping City to a Premier League title and FA Cup win in his time in Manchester.

Mancini admitted his disappointment to see the Italian striker leave but predicts he will go on to become a top player now he is closer to his family in his homeland.