Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has downplayed yesterday's training ground bust-up involving Mario Balotelli.

The Italian player, who is understood to have engaged in an altercation with Micah Richards, is believed to have been involved in several such altercations since arriving at the Etihad Stadium a season ago.

However, Mancini has dismissed the incident as "nothing".

"He said it was because he didn't pass the ball to him. It was a really stupid thing. It was nothing. After 10 minutes it was finished," the manager told reporters.

"I was always involved in problems on the training ground, with Trevor Francis and Liam Brady. It happens. When you play a match eight versus eight and you are passionate, it can happen with every team. Not every week, but often.

"Mario and Micah were boxing, but they are like twins. They are very good friends."

Meanwhile, the Citizens will continue preparing to welcome Arsenal to Manchester this weekend.