Former Inter Milan CEO Ernesto Paolillo has jumped to the defence of Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli.

Paolillo says youngster Balotelli NEVER caused problems at the San Siro.

And he reckons jealous first-teamers at the Serie A side are to blame for causing his wayward streak.

He added: "When he was a player in our academies he didn't create problems - not to the club, not the other players, not to the coaches.

"But maybe he went into the first team too young and not mature enough. Maybe also that in the first team very famous players were not prepared enough to have a young player with them who was so talented. It was also dangerous for them.

"I hope in the future he will understand a lot of things that now he is unable to understand.

"If so, he will be the best player in Europe."