Controversy is trailing the unexpected breakdown of Ghanaian-born Italian international Mario Balotelli during last Saturday night’s Serie A match between his club AC Milan and Napoli. The macho striker was pictured shedding tears on the bench towards the end of the match. He tried to hide his tears but soon broke down crying.

Initial reports had it that Balotelli gave way to tears because he was deeply hurt by the racist chants of Napoli fans but AC Milan manager, Clarence Seedorf, later rubbished the claims. While Balotelli is often the victim of racism amongst soccer fans, Seedorf said he cried Saturday night because of poor play and being substituted late into the mach which AC Milan lost 1-3 to the hosts.

“We are players and there are times when we express ourselves that way. I see nothing wrong or abnormal in that. I experienced it at times too,” the AC Milan Coach told Sky Sport Italia, adding:

“He too needs to grow in general. He played very well against Cagliari, while tonight perhaps didn’t make the most of the space. These are things we can all improve on and I’m happy he has so many areas to improve, as I can help him through that education.”