Kaka gave his first press conference as a Real Madrid player after his official presentation.
Article
30 June 2009
Realmadrid.com / Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell
Kaka gave his first press conference as a Real Madrid player after his official presentation.
How does it feel to have 40,000 people attending your presentation?
I feel very proud and deeply moved, but I also feel great responsibility. A positive responsibility. I want to win titles with this club.
Why did you decide to leave Milan?
I explained my decision in Brazil. Milan opened the doors for me in January. I understood the club's position because of the world financial crisis. After the championship, Milan, through my father, told me they received several offfers for me and that they allowed me to negotiate. That was the second time that happened and I thought my departure was best for both myself and the club. The team I wanted to play for if I ever left Milan was Real Madrid and my wish has come true.
Have you ever experienced anything like this presentation?
The only thing similar to it I've witnessed was Ronaldinho's presentation at Milan. This has never happened before in football and it is an historic even for me. It is an indescribable and unforgettable day.
Why did you choose Real Madrid?
Because Real Madrid has it all. It is fascinating. Footballers that have played for this team have told me so. I had excellent references. That helped me choose Real Madrid.
Did the possibility of playing with Cristiano Ronaldo influence your decision?
Florentino Perez described his project to me and it influenced my decision. He is a winner. I asked him if he could do everything he told us and he's proved he can. It is a great privilege to play for great teams. I've been very lucky to play with great footballers. I will keep on doing so, but not just with Cristiano Ronaldo; I will also play with Raul, Casillas, Guti, the Dutch players... I feel very privileged.
Does such a reception add a lot of pressure?
It adds great responsibility, but that's not a negative thing. It motivates me. I've arrived as an important player and that motivates me to win important titles.
What did Alfredo di Stefano say to you?
He told me many interesting things. He compared the Bernabeu with Maracana.
Can Real Madrid fight face-to-face with Barcelona?
Yes. That's what Florentino Perez's project wants to do. They deserved their three titles last season, but Real Madrid will be an important team both in Europe and Spain next season.
Have you spoken to Pellegrini yet?
Not yet, but I hope to do soon.
Does Cristiano Ronaldo's presence relieve you from some of the pressure?
I don't feel a great weight on my shoulders. I feel privileged. Cristiano Ronaldo has played at a very high level these past three years, reaching two Champions League finals. Raul has won many titles with Real Madrid and can win many more. Real Madrid has great players.
Do you think great players guarantee titles?
My experience tells me talent alone is not enough. I've met many talented players that haven't been successful, and less talented ones that have. It is a different matter to have a group of talented players that make sacrifices to achieve a collective goal.
Do you think you are compatible with Cristiano Ronaldo?
There will be no rivalry. We are compatible footballers that can play together. There will be no rivalry off the pitch. We are experienced men and we've both been champions.
How do you see your future at the Club?
Many things changed my way of thinking when I arrived in Europe. I have a six-year contract and I want to see it through. I would even like to stay longer.
What did you tell Ancelotti when he asked you to play for Chelsea?
I was honest with him. I thanked him for the time we worked together and for how much he helped me, but I told him I only wanted to play for Real Madrid.
Who was the first person you spoke to after reaching an agreement with Real Madrid?
My father.
Would you like to play in Japan again?
I have excellent memories of Japan; I won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil there and also the 2006 World Club Championship with Milan. I know there are many Real Madrid fans in Japan and I hope to return with my new club.
Did Real Madrid make offers to sign you in the past?
I know they made offers for me, but I didn't even listen to them because Milan didn't either. I always left these matters in the club's hands.