Clarence Seedorf: At times, it's better to leave Balotelli alone

Posted Tuesday, April 29, 2014 by YAHOO Sport

AC Milan boss Clarence Seedorf believes the best way to deal with striker Mario Balotelli is to leave him alone.

The 23-year-old reacted angrily to being substituted during Friday's 2-0 loss at Roma before launching into a tirade at journalists after the game.

The Dutchman believes the former Manchester City forward has been hindered by the huge amount of attention paid to him by the media and believes he thrives if left to his own devices.

"Balotelli has improved. He asked me why he was substituted against Roma, the same way Keisuke Honda did against Lazio. We have an excellent rapport between adults," he told Sky. "I don't think he left the field in a bad way. As for insulting his teammates after a misplaced pass, I've seen that gesture 1000 times in my career.

"Journalists have not helped Balotelli's growth. I talk to him and give him constructive criticism, but I do it in private, not via the media. At times, it's better to leave him alone. I feel his positive changes are not highlighted. It's not fair only to look at his negative moments. His scoring statistics are strong."