Mario Balotelli is unlikely to be leaving Manchester City in the January transfer window as the club's owner is a big fan of the striker, the Guardian reports.

The fiery Italian international has had a disappointing season so far and has once again often seen himself making the headlines for the wrong reasons, but according to City boss Roberto Mancini, the club's owner, Sheikh Mansour is an admirer of the player.

"I think Mario will stay but the future depends mostly on him," Mancini told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "Sheikh Mansour likes Balotelli because he recognises the talent and he exports the name of the City over the world.

"We need to consider that Mario was made as a major investment, and this is not a club that throws its capital through the window."

Balotelli scored 13 league goals last season which helped City on their way to the Premier League title, but has just one league goal to his name so far this term in comparison.

Mancini says he still remains fond of the striker, having also had him at his previous club Inter Milan, but insists the player must start to show more professionalism.

"The time of cheap talk is over. Balotelli is 22 years old and now it's time to be professional.

"I ask from him seriousness and commitment in training, a more stable private life and correct behaviour on the pitch," expressed the City boss.

The Citizens currently trail rivals Manchester United by seven points in the title race, and a fully firing Balotelli would be a welcome return to their side.

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