Mansion Sports – His name remains Kakà, yet in Milan he is primarily known as Ricky. Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite arrived in Italy at a very young age and left the city with a collection of prestigious titles, including the Ballon d’Or.

He experienced two periods with AC Milan, yet that description feels insufficient to capture the depth of his story.

Kakà’s relationship with Milan is a love story, a red-and-black thread that has never been broken, whether during his time at Real Madrid or now, having passed the age of forty.

After retiring, he pursued studies in sports management at Harvard, attended courses organized by FIFA and UEFA, and obtained coaching licenses in Brazil.

Amid his various activities, he envisions a future as an executive and possibly opening a new chapter with Milan.

He acknowledged learning from prominent figures such as Silvio Berlusconi, Adriano Galliani, Ariedo Braida, Leonardo, and also Florentino Perez in Madrid. During his playing career, he observed how they worked.

He is now involved in sports marketing and leaves open the possibilities of what may occur in the coming years. For him, the relationship with Milan has always been and will remain special.

Confidence Ahead of the Derby and the Scudetto Pursuit

Ahead of the derby set to take place in the coming days, Kakà admitted to feeling enthusiasm as a supporter.

Despite a ten-point gap in the standings, he continues to believe that everything remains possible, including the race for the scudetto.

He recognizes that the current situation appears very difficult, yet his long experience in football convinces him that as long as there is an opportunity, belief must be maintained, and the players on the field will do the same.

Regarding the course of the match, he considers that the debate between attractive play and the demand for results will always exist.

As a Brazilian, he understands the value of jogo bonito, yet as part of the Milan family, he sees the positive aspects of Massimiliano Allegri’s work.

In his view, Allegri understands Italian football exceptionally well and is carrying out solid work.

He feels proud to see Milan once again positioned at the top of the standings, competing for the title and with the opportunity to return to European competition.

Concerning Cristian Chivu, who had once been doubted but now guides Inter Milan with stability, Kakà regards that achievement as a pleasant surprise.

He had previously observed Chivu’s team at the Club World Cup last summer, when they were still in the early phase of a new project.

Now, in his opinion, Chivu has succeeded in building a solid team in his debut on the bench of a major club.

Modric, Derby Memories, and the Condition of Italian Football

Kakà also highlighted Luka Modric, who is of a similar age yet continues to demonstrate spirit, leadership, and high technical quality. He previously played alongside Modric in Madrid and understands his mentality.

He acknowledged that maintaining motivation after winning numerous trophies is not easy, yet Modric continues to display energy and strong character.

His contribution to Milan is considered significant, both in matches and in training sessions, and his presence is viewed as having a positive impact on Italian football as a whole.

Regarding Serie A, Kakà considers the league to remain competitive, although it is no longer the strongest in the world as it was during his era, with the Premier League now holding that position.

He still regards the Italian competition as compelling to watch, and the Milan derby as one of the most beautiful matches to play and to witness.

When compared with the Madrid derby, he admitted that it is difficult to choose, as both involve the entire city before, during, and after the match.

Victory turns one into a hero, while defeat leaves a burden that lingers for days.

He last visited Milan last year with his wife during fashion week. He observed that the city continues to develop, with new districts harmoniously blending history and modern life.

Kakà remains in contact with many former teammates, including Paolo Maldini, whom he met in Dubai, and he communicates with Gennaro Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo, Andriy Shevchenko, Clarence Seedorf, Galliani, Braida, and Leonardo. He considers those bonds to be something beautiful.

His best memory in the derby is the Champions League match, especially the first one. The worst memory is, of course, defeat, although he experienced more victories. What he appreciates most about Milan at present is the team’s return to the title race.

What he does not appreciate are the points dropped, particularly in home matches such as against Parma, which he believes should have been won.

If required to choose one Inter player to be absent, he mentioned Lautaro Martinez, and due to injury, he selected Marcus Thuram.

For the decisive figure in the derby from Milan’s side, he pointed to Modric without hesitation, because of his experience and class. He also praised Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao.

Regarding Modric’s future, he considers that modern science helps extend the careers of athletes.

Observing his current important role, Modric is considered still capable of playing for another two or three years, although the final decision will depend on physical condition, family, and personal desire.

San Siro Nostalgia and Hopes for Brazil

Concerning the possible demolition of San Siro, Kakà acknowledged a sense of nostalgia for the history and memories created there.

However, he also understands that change is part of life, and something new can open opportunities for the next beautiful story.

He expressed curiosity about the format of the next World Cup, spread across a very wide territory, in contrast to Qatar, which allowed spectators to watch several matches in a single day.

He appreciates the idea that more people will be able to watch football directly and experience the atmosphere of such a major tournament.

For the Brazil national team now coached by Carlo Ancelotti, he considers the figure appropriate for this period. Brazil is always among the favorites, although perhaps not within the top three. He believes in Ancelotti’s ability and hopes the team can perform well after several previous disappointments.

He also followed the Olympics and felt proud of Lucas Pinheiro Braathen’s success in winning a gold medal in skiing, an achievement regarded as extraordinary for Brazil.

Beyond football, he enjoys various sports and in recent years has begun to appreciate tennis.

He sees great potential in Joao Fonseca, although he understands that development at a young age is full of ups and downs. He hopes Fonseca can demonstrate progress, including at Indian Wells.

Ahead of the derby, Kakà expressed one conviction: Milan is capable of defeating Inter and reducing the gap in the standings. He places his trust in Modric and the entire team.