An Appreciation Thread for my All Time Favourite Brazilian — Ricardo Kaká.

The Brazil playmaker was recognised as such at the 2007 Ballon d’Or ceremony, beating Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi — two players who would dominate the awards for the next decade — by a huge margin.

Reaching his peak on the brink of the Messi-Ronaldo era, Kaká occupies a unique place in football history. We shouldn’t forget his phenomenal talent.

For a brief period of time, Kaká was, without doubt, the best footballer in the world.

At the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Pelé explained why Kaká’s achievements dwarfed those of Messi & Ronaldo.

“Kaka has been playing at this level for Brazil for four years now,” Pelé said. “He helps out in midfield & he is also a great example off the pitch. He is the complete player.”

Kaká was also something of a dying breed. An all-action No.10, the Brazilian was a central attacking midfielder who consistently scored and provided goals for his team.

Zinedine Zidane called him a “rare piece of talent”.

Where goalscoring wide forwards have since dominated the Ballon d’Or, Kaká usually played through the middle, using his pace and skill to move the ball from midfield to attack, usually with the desired consequences.

“I’m a religious person & I believe the path God decides for us is not always the most logical one,” Kaká revealed.
“Milan had never considered any offer for me in the past. This time it was different & I had to think about it, but then I decided to stay." On Man City rumours.

A legend and one of the greatest players to ever grace the sport.
Long live, Kaka.