‘Balotelli might never mature’ - Capello

The Russia coach also offered his insight into
who could win World Cup 2014, with his
favourites including Brazil, Germany, Spain and
"wildcard" Italy
Fabio Capello has doubts that AC Milan striker
Mario Balotelli will ever grow up ahead of his
notable absence from his side's clash with
Juventus.
The striker will serve the third and final game
of his suspension for the Bianconeri tie at
20:45CET on Sunday for intimidating the
referee in a 2-1 loss to Napoli.
Balotelli is set to be a key figure for Italy at
World Cup 2014 next summer and Capello
believes that the Azzurri could be a surprise
package alongside favourites such as Spain,
Germany and Brazil.
"I do not know if Balotelli will ever mature,"
the current Russia coach told Metronews.it . "I
hope so.
"Italy are an interesting team - they could be a
wildcard at World Cup 2014.
"Brazil will be playing at home and the fans
proved to have been a great help during the
Confederations Cup.
"Argentina are getting stronger. Germany are
still one of the best teams and, of course, you
cannot forget Spain. But there's always a
surprise.
The ex-England manager refused to take
Russia’s potential qualification for the
tournament for granted, as his side lead their
qualification group with two games to play.
"I wouldn’t call matches against Luxembourg
and Azerbaijan straightforward," Capello
added. "You have to have respect for your
opponents.
"We’re very prepared. We have two chances of
reaching the World Cup. It would be foolish to
waste them."
Capello also offered his thoughts on who will
thrive in Europe this season and, as well as
predicting Bayern Munich as huge favourites,
doubts any Premier League club can lift the
Champions League trophy in 2013-14.
"It will be an exciting season," the Italian, 67,
added. "Bayern and Borussia Dortmund will try
to repeat their performances. Guardiola is
having success at Munich, but it will not be
easy to overcome the achievements of [Jupp]
Heynckes.
"I would not consider the English teams as
possible winners. I also wonder what Real
Madrid and Barcelona will be able to do with
their new coaches."