Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini accepts that his side's bid to retain the Premier League title could be hit by the imminent departure of Mario Balotelli.
The 22-year-old Italy striker is poised to return to his homeland to join AC Milan, with Mancini admitting that there is little or no time to bring in a replacement before the transfer window shuts on Thursday evening.
Mancini said after a disappointing goalless draw at lowly QPR: "We only have two days and it is difficult to buy a good player in this moment.
"It is difficult because I lost one important striker and that could be important in the next 14 games, but it is important for Mario - to be back in Italy, back with his family and to play for Milan.
"We are also sad because Mario was an important player for us. He is a fantastic player, but I think for him this could an important chance to go back to Italy and play for another top club like Milan.
"I hope he can continue to improve because he can become one of the world's best players."
With Balotelli set to make his exit from the Citizens, Mancini's men are four points behind Manchester United, with the Red Devils in action on Wednesday evening at home to Southampton.
United are 1.25 to take all three points and move seven clear, while they are 7.00 to win 2-0 and 1.22 to go on and win the Premier League title this season.
Don't forget, all Premier League matches are covered by the bet365 100% Euro Soccer Bonus, where you could earn a bonus of up to 100% on your returns on pre-match accumulator bets.
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