Kaká: “I think Milan are on the right track, Maldini is a great example for me, I’d give the Ballon d’Or to van Dijk”

Ricky Kaká has said Gattuso did a good job at Milan, admitted he’s unsure why Leonardo left the club, and added ‘we will see what happens in the future.’ with regards to his possible involvement in the Diavolo management.

Kaká, who originally joined Milan in 2003 for a reported €8.5 million – therefore being one of the biggest football bargains in the game’s history, was in Paris today for a mini-match organized by FIFA.

The Brazilian, who has been studying to become a sporting director, played the mini-game alongside the Deputy Secretary General of FIFA and perhaps future Milan management member, Zvonimir Boban. Kaká then spoke to Sky Italia, answering questions about different topics.

“If Boban told me when he’ll go to Milan? He hasn’t said anything yet, we’ve talked about other things. It was a pleasure to play with him today, even though I couldn’t do it at Milan. We’re having fun,” the 37-year-old Kaka told the reporters. “The season of Milan? I’m so sorry that for one point we didn’t arrive in the Champions League, but we see that there are shoots of a recovery.

“We’ll see in which direction Milan will go with all these changes. There is Paolo Maldini who remains in the club, there’s change now but I think we are on the right track. Gattuso’s work? I think Rino did a great job, especially in transmitting to these players what is the DNA of Milan and what it means to play with this shirt. He had his difficulties, however I think he transmitted it well.

“Leonardo’s farewell? I don’t know why he made the choice to leave Milan. I’ve heard some voices, but he certainly had his motivations as well. If I see a future for myself at Milan? Maldini is a great example for me: he had waited 9 years before returning to the world of football. I think I will take the same direction, but I will always be close to Milan. It’s difficult to detach yourself. Even in Brazil I always watch the games and read the news on Milan. I have great love for this team.

“We will see what happens in the future. If I would give the Ballon d’Or to Virgil van Dijk? I had some discussions talking about it with friends and with my brother and the name we chose is really his. He had a great season in the Premier League and won the Champions League playing in a crazy way. We’ll see what the judges will decide but it’s time to reward a defender.”