Madrid, Aug 29: Kaka has no plans to leave Real Madrid before the close of the summer transfer window even though the Brazilian playmaker is unlikely to be a regular starter for coach Jose Mourinho.
Media reports had suggested Kaka, who joined Madrid for a fee of ¤65 million (then $83 million) in 2009, may be on the move before the Aug. 31 transfer deadline with AC Milan, Inter Milan and Arsenal among the clubs linked.
“I've always said I wanted to stay and I haven't changed my mind—I want to stay and I'm going to stay,” Kaka told reporters. “I think I can really help this team and, on top of that, the coach told me he's counting on me so I'm staying.”
The former Milan midfielder came on in the second half to score in Madrid's 6-0 victory at Zaragoza on Sunday to open the Spanish league season. Germany playmaker Mesut Oezil has been Mourinho's first-choice attacking midfielder since his arrival in the summer of 2010.
Kaka has remained out of the Brazil squad as he tries to rediscover his form following nearly two seasons of battling various injuries, including knee and groin problems.
“I played a good game and that makes me happy, but it's not the first time—I've had good matches for Madrid before,” the 29-year-old Kaka said. “One good game isn't enough, what I need is regular playing time. I have to continue on slowly. Now, I have to take advantage of the minutes I get and that's what I'm going to do.” AP
