Why Is Mario Balotelli In TIME Magazine's 100 Influential People?

The inclusion of the former Manchester City bad boy striker 'Mario Balotelli' in TIME magazine's list will surely raise a few eyebrows, while there are also nominations for tennis star Li Na, the NBA's LeBron James and skiing great Lindsey Vonn.

The four representatives from the world of sport join the likes of Pope Francis, film director Steven Spielberg and rap star Jay-Z on the illustrious list.

Balotelli left Manchester for AC Milan in January, and even though City won their first League title in 44 years last season, the Italian's spell at the club will be remembered for a string of controversies as much as football.

He probably produced his finest performance for his country in a memorable victory over Germany in the semi-finals of Euro 2012.