Former Manchester City and Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli insists he doesn't understand why many regard him as controversial.

Balotelli is currently a free agent after coming off contract at Serie B Monza.

He posted to social media this morning: "I have seen so many insults against me and as you know I have no problem expressing my thoughts. I do not understand all this hatred towards me on the part of so many Italians!

"Italy is making a great Euro. I am not there because the guys in recent years have deserved the call-up more than me but with this what is the point of writing to me: 'you are poor', 'stay at home', 'you are not worth anything', 'you are not Italian' ... Have you ever thought about it that the World Cup is a difficult tournament for me to conquer but not impossible?

"And what should I say if I deserve it? No, I don't recognise myself in you so goodbye National?

"Think before you write: you never spit on the plate where you ate."

Mario finally concluded: "Anyway, now, let's forza Italia all together".