The woman called police at 3.05pm to report the Italian had approached her in “a threatening way” after he noticed her taking the photographs shortly after he parked his car.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: “We are investigating a report of threatening behaviour following an incident in Pewsey Road, Wythenshawe.

“Officers will be speaking to all concerned in due course.”

Police sources said it was unlikely either party would be spoken to until tomorrow at the earliest.

Balotelli, 24, caused controversy yesterday when he was spotted swapping shirts with Real Madrid defender Pepe as the pair walked down the tunnel at the end of the first half of Liverpool's Champions League tie at Anfield.

He was replaced in the second half for tactical reasons as he continues to struggle to make an impact on the pitch with only one goal in 10 appearances since a £16 million summer move from AC Milan.

Many Liverpool fans have questioned his demeanour and work rate during matches.

Former Liverpool captain Graeme Souness believes Balotelli has to undergo a personality change to survive at Anfield.

He said: “The criticism is for him not showing any enthusiasm.

“He must do all the training all the other boys do and he looks physically fit and powerful so I am just wondering if he doesn’t have a football brain.”