The first picture of Mario Balotelli in a City shirt back in July 2010

Mario and Roberto Mancini resumed their working relationship from their days at Inter

Super Mario didn't take long to make an impression on his teammates.

Mario came on as a substitute against Politehnica Timisoara to make his first City appearance in a 1-0 Europa League win in August 2010

His elaborate collection of cars will certainly be missed from the Carrington car-park

An injury to his lateral meniscus in his right knee meant that we had to wait a while for Mario's first Premier League goal but he chipped in with two in November 2010 against West Brom.

Mario keeping warm with his pirate gloves against Red Bull Salzburg in the Europa League.

Whatever will be, will be, Mario's going to Wembley

It's fair to say that Mario was no stranger to controversy in his time at City - here, Attilio Lombardo steers him away from a confrontation with Rio Ferdinand

Mario on a visit to St Anne's Hospital

Mario's relationship with Roberto Mancini was a focal point through his City career with the pair often said to have a father/son bond.

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Mario fronted a firework safety campaign - a cheeky nod to an incident on the weekend before the 6-1 Manchester derby

A cool celebration for another cool finish from the Italian against Newcastle United.

Mario converted all eight for his penalties for City but few meant as much as this one against Spurs in injury time to clinch a 3-2 victory.

"It starts off with booing because he's a City player, but it turns into cheers because he's a modern day rock-star" - Noel Gallagher

Mario in a rare reflective moment just two days before the final day of last season

At the Player of the Year Awards last season with Sergio and David.

The title win sees Mario get the ice bucket treatment.

Mario reserves a special hug for his mate Aleksandar Kolarov after the dramatic final game

Looks like this is the only glimpse we'll be getting of Mario

The final haircut of many in Blue. You'll be missed, Mario!