Kaka Never Wanted To Leave Milan, Says Agent
Agent Gaetano Paolillo has revealed that Kaka initially declined the idea of joining Real Madrid and instead wanted to stay at AC Milan.
Paolillo brought Kaka to Europe after spotting him playing for Sao Paulo in the Brazilian league.
The former Brazil international rose to prominence in Europe, helping the Rossoneri win major honours which includes the 2003-2004 Serie A title and the 2007 Champions League trophy.
After his brilliant performance in the 2006-07 season, Kaka was named the FIFA best player of the year, becoming one of the highs in his decorated career.
Speaking to MilanNews.it, Paolillo revealed that the-then 21-year-old’s father admitted it has always been Kaka’s dream to play for AC Milan when he first introduced himself to him.
“He was coming back from an injury, but was astonishing, scoring a goal and an assist, but could easily have had another two or three more,” he said.
“I introduced myself to his father and asked what European club Ricardo dreamed of playing for. He replied Milan.”
“I asked for 30 days to make it happen and began pressing (then Milan CEO Adriano) Galliani, but it wasn’t easy, because they already had Manuel Rui Costa and Rivaldo in the trequartista role.”
“I even offered him to Inter at one point, but Hector Cuper didn’t know what to do with Kaka in a 4-4-2 formation. Nobody else was really interested, which I found incredible.”
“In the end, (Milan lawyer Leonardo) Cantamessa even did Kaka’s astrological chart and said we had to sign him, because the stars were shining on this player.”
“After Ariedo Braida was won over, we got Galliani on board.”
The Milan-based club were unwilling to sell their superstar to Real Madrid in 2009, yet they were forced to sanction his sale due to their financial turmoil.
He added: "To tell you the truth, Kaka did not want to leave AC Milan.”
"He was doing fine in Milan, [both] he and his family.
"However, the club put him up for sale and at that time Real Madrid were an excellent solution.”
"I remember that after the last game with AC Milan in 2009, he went to play for Brazil and took just a backpack with him.
"I accompanied him to the Malpensa [Airport] and I remember him saying, 'See you here when I return.'
"Instead, AC Milan were forced to sell him to Real Madrid."
