Zanetti surprised by Balotelli switch

Feb 18, 2013 5:05:00 PM

The veteran Inter captain was shocked to see his former team-mate join AC Milan in January, but is hoping to keep him from scoring in next week's derby

Inter captain Javier Zanetti has admitted that he was surprised to see former team-mate Mario Balotelli join cross-city rivals AC Milan.

The 22-year-old completed a move back to Italy from Manchester City in January, and will go head to head with the veteran Argentine in next week's Derby della Madonnina.

"I didn't expect Balotelli to join Milan," the 39-year-old told reporters.

"He's a great player, but hopefully, we'll play a great defensive game against him and his team-mates."

The Italy international has scored four goals in his three appearances since joining the Rossoneri last month.

Milan and Inter kick off at 20:45CET on February 24.

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