A world record transfer fee plus a world record weekly wages, even angels would be tempted. Why did Kaka decide to stay put at the San Siro. Has he not won every laurel winnable with the Rossoneri?
May be he forgot that there is no pension scheme in football. Make all the bucks while your legs are “valuable” or rot in penury after retirement. In a profession that has a 15 year-span, you would be a fool to be an exception to the aforementioned rule.
As I watched the drama unfold, I reflected on Nicolas Anelka. How fulfilled is Anelka? Yes he has raked in the millions. From Paris to North London, from Madrid to Istanbul, from Merseyside to Eastland to Bolton, and now to West London, Anelka symbolizes the art and science of mercenarism in football.
I have always subscribed to the view that like Anelka, most followers are mercenaries. Today, they are kissing the emblem of the Eskimos; tomorrow they are in love with the logo of the mafias. Don’t get me wrong; I did not say “prostitutes”. So, where in hell did Ricardo Kaka pick up that long forgotten virtue called loyalty?
I saw his game against Fiorentina on January 17. I saw him put his hand to his heart as he was being substituted. I saw him wave emotionally and applaud the San Siro mob.
With his family and the Milan hierarchy favorably disposed to the move, I took his gestures for a good-bye. Unlike their Fiorentina friends, who held night vigils in their failed attempt to persuade Gabriel Batistuta to ignore Roma’s offer, Milan’s faithfuls had accepted the inevitable exit.
Contract signed, sealed and delivered we all thought. But a red-and-black strip shirt jogging from a window in Milan’s neighborhood changed the equation. Yep, Ricardo decided to follow his heart. Sure, he has pledged by his action to grow old with the Rossoneri.
Definitely, he will lead the Milan rebirth after ageless Maldini gives way. By his action, he has redefined the essence of love and loyalty. I thought money ruled the world. Thanks to the Brazilian Kaka, I know otherwise.
