Mancini has already discarded Craig Bellamy and Stephen Ireland in part because of their attitude behind the scenes, but the problems have persisted in the opening part of this season, with Emmanuel Adebayor's behaviour increasingly becoming a matter of concern.
Shay Given's disillusionment after losing his place to Joe Hart also led to a meeting with Mancini, but the Italian has made it clear that he will not tolerate any more outbursts from his players as he tries to establish a squad rotation policy.