Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini believes that there is too much media focus on controversial striker Mario Balotelli.

The former Inter Milan star has been known to make the headlines on the front pages as well as the back for his off-field antics and questionable behaviour.

Despite Mancini reportedly coming into a few confrontations with the 21-year-old, the Italian boss has come to the aid of his frontman.

"There are other people on and off the pitch that do worse than Mario and no-one says anything because maybe they play for an important team or are not like Mario," said Mancini.

"There are some people who think bad things against other people, like Mario. Every time Mario does something, [it] is like a war."

Meanwhile, Inter's sporting director Marco Branca has hinted that the Serie A side may try to re-sign the forward in the summer.