Kaka announces retirement from football
What's the story
Former Ballon d'Or winner and World Cup winner, Kaka, who was renowned for his vision and passing ability has announced his retirement from football at age 35.
Widely considered as one of the best players of his generation, Kaka is one of seven players to have won the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA Champions League and Ballon d'Or.
Here is all about his career!
Best in the business
The genius before Ronaldo and Messi
Kaka is the only player other than Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi to pick up the Ballon d'Or in the last 11 years.
If not for those series of knee injuries, he could have won more.
The attacking-midfielder has hinted that he might not stay away from the sport and get into management or coaching at his former club Ac Milan.
Quote
Kaka eyes management career with AC Milan
Kaka said "I am preparing to continue in football and to have a different role, but I will no longer be a professional player, an athlete. I would like to take part in a club in a role more like...a manager, a sporting director"
Twitter Post
Kaka retires at 35
Father,
— Kaka (@KAKA) December 17, 2017
It was much more than I could ever imagined. Thank you! I’m now ready for the next journey. In Jesus name. Amem.
Pai,
Foi muito mais do que eu pedi ou imaginei!Obrigado! Eis-me aqui para próxima jornada. Em nome de Jesus. Amém. pic.twitter.com/PofZBAV0BE
Prime years
The rise of Ricardo Kaka
Kaka began his illustrious career with Sao Paulo in Brazil before attracting attention from Europe.
In 2003, AC Milan signed him and since then there was no looking back for the talented midfielder.
He helped them win the Serie A, the Champions League and even won the Ballon d'Or during his time with AC Milan.
Injury crisis
The tough years at Real Madrid
Kaka's huge success at AC Milan made him a superstar and Real Madrid offered him a then world record transfer fee worth 68 million euros.
But the midfield ace struggled at the Spanish capital after multiple injuries left him on the sidelines for months.
After 4 years and 120 appearances in Madrid, Kaka returned to Ac Milan.
Twilight years
Kaka calls time on his illustrious career
Kaka's second spell with AC Milan was not a successful one and he left the Italian giants a year after his return.
He then signed for Orlando city and spent twilight years of his career with the MLS side.
Kaka also won 92 caps for Brazil scoring 29 while featuring in 3 World Cups. Kaka was a part of Brazil's 2002 World Cup-winning team.