Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has admitted that he is disappointed with the breakdown of his relationship with Carlos Tevez.

The Argentine appears to be close to sealing a move to Italian champions AC Milan following a succession of bust-ups with the Italian boss.

Speaking ahead of his team's match against Stoke City this evening, Mancini has conceded that City are a better team with Tevez included.

"We were better with Carlos in the squad because he is a fantastic striker," said Mancini.

"I had a good relationship with him and he was always well behaved.

"I don't know what happened but it was really strange and frustrating because we were better, 100%."

Tevez is currently in his native Argentina as City and Milan attempt to reach an agreement.