Balotelli celebrated towards the United fans, tugging the badge on his shirt, and enraging Rio Ferdinand.
Causing a stir: Balotelli celebrated City's FA Cup win in front of the United fans
However veteran midfielder Vieira, who played alongside Balotelli at Inter Milan, has leapt to his team-mate's defence
'That's part of his personality, that's Balotelli's charm,' Vieira told Sky Sports.
'I don't think it was a case of provocation, I just think he got carried away. 'There was some over-excitement but I think United's players got carried away as well.
Sealed with a wink: Balotelli infuriated Ferdinand with his cheeky gesture
'There was more pressure on City's shoulders than United's. As a club and as a team, United are more used to controlling these types of games.
'For us, it was pure joy because the club has been waiting for this for so long. And with all the press expecting United to win easily, it was a big relief.'
City face Stoke in the final on May 14 and Vieira is on course to win his fifth winners' medal - all four coming during his time at Arsenal.
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Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail