Mario Balotelli insisted his reputation as a "bad boy" has been exaggerated as he was unveiled by Manchester City on Tuesday. The fiery 20-year-old striker has moved to big-spending City from Inter Milan, although he arrives with a troublesome image.
There is no doubting the quality of the Italy international, but Balotelli had a number of run-ins with team-mates, fans and his manager while at Inter Milan.
Former boss Jose Mourinho excluded him from the first-team squad at one point, while after a Champions League game he caused outrage in the San Siro when he threw his Inter shirt onto the ground in disgust.
He said: "I am not a bad boy. I am just a normal guy."
The 20 year old penned a five-year contract with City last week after a long transfer saga, and could make his debut in the Europa League against Timisoara.
Balotelli is looking forward to getting his City career underway and believes his style of play will be suited to the Premier League.
He added: "I am happy to be here at Manchester City because of the manager and the environment.
"I was sorry to leave my family and friends behind in Italy but not for professional reasons.
"I think I will fit in the Premier League because I think for a striker it is probably the ideal league in comparison to Italy for example where it is quite tactical.
"I believe that I will fit in the Premier League quite well."
