Brazilian football icon Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, popularly known as Ricardo Kaká, has been inducted into AC Milan’s Hall of Fame in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the Italian club.
The former Brazilian international was visibly emotional as he received the honour on Saturday, following a standing ovation from fans at the San Siro.
Kaká, who spent seven seasons with the Rossoneri, made 307 appearances for the club, scoring 104 goals during his time in Italy.
The recognition was presented to him ahead of the Serie A clash between Milan and their city rivals, Inter Milan, at the San Siro, with thousands of supporters celebrating his legacy.
The legendary playmaker also delighted fans by recreating his iconic goal celebration, pointing both index fingers towards the sky as he jogged.
Known for his attacking brilliance, elegant movement and effortless style of play, Kaká joined Milan in 2003 after an impressive spell at Brazilian side São Paulo, where he scored 22 goals in 49 appearances.
Milan reportedly secured his services for €8.5 million, a fee the club’s then-owner, Silvio Berlusconi, famously described as “peanuts,” according to a 2009 publication by the Sydney Morning Herald.
During his spell at the San Siro, Kaká won several major honours, including the Serie A title, Coppa Italia, UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup.
He played a crucial role in Milan’s Champions League triumph in 2007, particularly after scoring twice against Manchester United in the semi-final before helping the Italian side defeat Liverpool in the final in Athens.
His outstanding performances that year earned him the 2007 Ballon d’Or award, finishing ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Milan and Liverpool had previously faced each other in the 2005 Champions League final, famously known as ‘The Miracle of Istanbul’, after the English side recovered from a three-goal deficit to win on penalties.
Beyond his achievements at Milan, Kaká also enjoyed success on the international and club stages. He was part of Brazil’s squad that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup and claimed the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 2007.
He also won the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles during his spell with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
