Mario shocked at Morosini's death, expresses grief

London, Apr 16 (ANI): Manchester City striker, Mario Balotelli is mourning the death of former team-mate and Italian mid-fielder Piermario Morosini, saying that the tragedy will teach him to 'appreciate and respect life'.

The Livorno star who died after suffering a cardiac arrest during a Serie B match in the 31st minute at Pescara on Saturday, left Balotelli in a state of shock, The Daily Mail reports.

Despite desperate attempts to resuscitate him, he never regained consciousness.

"I was shocked when I heard. I couldn't believe it and hoped it was just some horrible prank. This makes me reflect on many things in my life. It teaches me to appreciate life, respect it and experience it with caution and dignity," Balotelli was quoted as saying.

Thousands of mourners gathered outside Livorno's Armando Picchi Stadium to pay tribute to the 25-year-old who was orphaned at the age of 18 after his parents died two years apart. Shortly afterwards, his disabled brother committed suicide, leaving him with his handicapped elder sister and an aunt.

According to reports, an investigation has been launched after it emerged that his ambulance was delayed for three minutes outside the stadium because a police car was parked in front of the emergency exit. (ANI)