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Football | Italy

Massimo Moratti © Gallo Images

Moratti urges racists not to target Balotelli



Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has called on fans of the Nerazzurri to refrain from targeting the club's former striker, Mario Balotelli, with racist abuse at the upcoming Milan derby.

If Sunday's match at the San Siro was any indicator, Balotelli, who joined AC Milan two weeks ago from Manchester City, is set for a red-hot reception when Inter host the Milan derby in two weeks' time.

At Inter's home game against Chievo late on Sunday racist chanting aimed at Balotelli was heard in the stands which harbour the club's hardcore fans.

Asked about the fans' behaviour, Moratti was effusive but said he hoped it would not be repeated when Balotelli returns to the San Siro with Milan on February 24.

"They told me there was racist chanting, but I didn't understand it," Moratti said after the game, won 3-1 by Inter.

"I'm really sorry, I hope this does not happen at the derby."

Balotelli played with Inter from 2006-2010 before joining Manchester City, with whom he had a turbulent two and a half years.

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