Balotelli will only become more important for Milan, says Pazzini

The Rossoneri attacker has nothing but praise for his club and international teammate as Balotelli gets set for his first full season with AC Milan.

Giampaolo Pazzini has insisted that he has a good relationship with Mario Balotelli and is confident that the 22-year-old will only become more important for AC Milan next season.

The Italy star joined the Rossoneri from Manchester City in the January transfer window and immediately became a key figure at the San Siro side, netting 12 goals in 13 Serie A appearances and helping the club to a third-place finish and a berth in the UEFA Champions League.

Pazzini is confident that there's more to come from the volatile Balotelli, though, and he has high expectations of his teammate.

"Mario is a good lad and I have never had any problems with him, more so I have an excellent relationship with him," Pazzini told reporters. "You’ll see in the future he’ll be even more useful to the team. He knows how to give the team even more."

The striker also bid farewell to Massimo Ambrosini, who is leaving the club this summer after 18 years.

"It has been an honor that he was my captain and my teammate," Pazzini said. "I thank him for everything he's done and wish him all the best."  

Pazzini recently underwent knee surgery and could be out of action for five to six months.