Manchester City believe in controversial Mario Balotelli

Mario Balotelli's agent Mino Raiola has claimed that Manchester City are determined to mold the striker into their star player.

The controversial Italy international is expected to remain at the Etihad Stadium, despite earlier reports in the season claiming that the 21-year-old was seeking a move back to his home nation.

"[Balotelli was] unsellable before - now untouchable," Raiola told Sky Sport Italia. "The sheikhs [at Man City] are completely convinced in the Balo brand. He should become one of the strongest players in the world."

The frontman has been a City player since moving from Inter Milan two years ago.