Adriano Galliani has commented on how ‘everyone was afraid’ about whether or not Ricky Kaka would be a hit on returning to Milan.
Adriano Galliani has commented on how ‘everyone was afraid’ about whether or not Ricky Kaka would be a hit on returning to Milan.
The Rossoneri re-signed the Brazilian late in the summer transfer window from Real Madrid, but welcomed back to San Siro a player who had struggled in Spain for form and fitness.
However, in seeing the 31-year-old recapture both, highlighted by a double-strike last weekend in victory against Atalanta, the Vice-President has reflected on the positive mood.
“Carletto Ancelotti, on his way to the stadium at Real Madrid, sent me a short message to say that he was very happy for Milan’s victory and for the two goals from Riccardo, who he coached for six years here,” began Galliani on Radio Monte Carlo today.
“Kaka is a legend, the player has entered the hearts of the fans in a manner particular to him, everyone is in love with him.
“As in the past with players like Maldini, Baresi and many others, the affection for Ricky is immense.
“Upon his return we were all afraid, myself also when I went to pick him up, I was afraid that he was not the same.
“He was injured right away, but he did something extraordinary in giving up his salary. He is fantastic – to declare love is easy, but to show it with your wallet is harder.
“Now he is doing well and we are all happy.”
Keisuke Honda is training with the team and inevitably Galliani was asked of the prospect of seeing the No 10 debut this coming weekend.
“He could start against Sassuolo, or more likely on Wednesday in the Coppa Italia. He has been out for a while, he must first find his condition and dispose of the jet lag.”
Galliani almost left the Rossoneri in November after a reported clash with Barbara Berlusconi, but is now working alongside the director.
“Now there are two administrative delegates here. I will take care of the sporting aspect and Barbara Berlusconi will handle the administrative side.”