Ibrahimovic : Balotelli key to Manchester City title hopes

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has tipped his former Inter- Milan team mate to be vital in the club’s title charge as they try to overhaul Manchester United in the second half of the season.

The 22-year-old Italian striker’s future remains up in the air as he seems to have fallen back into his old ways again this season, making headlines only for the wrong reasons and netting just three times in 15 games. Even with reports linking him with a move back to his homeland, Ibrahimovic feels he still has plenty left to offer.

“If you ever spend any time with Mario then you love Mario,” Ibrahimovic told the Daily Mail.

“Even though he is not always the easiest player for the coach to manage, speak to any of his old coaches like Mourinho and they will tell you when you work with Mario you always have a smile on your face. Manchester City are already a way behind Manchester United in the Premier League – but if any player can retain the title for them it is Mario.” he said.

Balotelli joined City from Inter in the summer of 2010.