| |
 |  |
|
| Naples welcomes Balotelli |
Sunday 26 April, 2009 |
|
Mario Balotelli has been praised by Jose Mourinho and presented with an anti-racism prize by the Mayor of Naples.
The Inter striker was at the centre of controversy last week when he was bombarded by racist abuse by Juventus fans, earning the club a one-match home ban.
To show that the same would not happen at the Stadio San Paolo today, the Mayor of Naples presented Balotelli with a special gold plaque that reads: 'On the occasion of Napoli-Inter, the people of Naples show their respect, affection and friendship to Mario Balotelli, wishing him a long and wonderful career with the Italy jersey.'
Inter Coach Mourinho also commented on the controversy that surrounds Balotelli, who is often accused of provoking opponents.
“Mario is doing very well, we should leave him be,” said the Special One. “He just needs to work. I get upset when a player dives, as that ruins the entertainment, but Mario doesn't do that.
“If anything he does the opposite. He dribbles, flicks and is not afraid to run risks. He is 18 years old and has no problem going up against Cristiano Ronaldo, Alessandro Del Piero or Pavel Nedved.
“When he's on the pitch he does not 'respect' anyone. Or rather, I tell him he has to give everybody the same level of respect, regardless of who they are, and he does that very well.”
|
|
|
Mourinho clings to Ibra
Jose Mourinho has tried to calm the storm surrounding Zlatan Ibrahimovic. “If it means keeping him, I’ll buy the player myself!” More
Inter inspire Donadoni
Roberto Donadoni hopes the motivation of facing leaders Inter at the San Paolo can spur Napoli back to winning ways. More
Video: Platini's Balotelli appeal
UEFA President Michel Platini responds to the Mario Balotelli racism row by urging referees to suspend games for 10 minutes. Watch |
|
| |
| |
