Kaka drops Copa America Saturday 12 May, 2007
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Kaka has sent a letter to the Brazilian Federation asking to be left out of the Copa America. “I haven’t rested for three seasons and could not perform.”
The Milan starlet has just turned 25 and is a favourite to win the Ballon d’Or for 2007, but as he prepares for the Champions League Final, he is already looking ahead to next season.
“I am always proud to be called up for the national team and, in view of a possible call for the Copa America, I believe I would not be in the ideal condition to give the performances expected of me at international level. I have not rested for three seasons,” said the letter printed on the Cbf official website.
As the Rossoneri cannot qualify in the top two of Serie A, they will have to go through a preliminary round in August – leaving Kaka precious little time to rest as the Copa America runs in Venezuela from June 26 to July 15.
“I thank you for your comprehension and with this letter formalise my request to be released from Copa America duty. My pride at wearing the Brazil shirt is untouched and I hope to feel that joy in other occasions.”
Before this request, only one other player had asked to be left out of the tournament, when Barcelona’s Ronaldinho pulled out.
Brazil Coach Carlos Dunga said he was “disappointed” at losing Kaka, but that this would be an opportunity for other players to shine.
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Kaka has sent a letter to the Brazilian Federation asking to be left out of the Copa America. “I haven’t rested for three seasons and could not perform.”
The Milan starlet has just turned 25 and is a favourite to win the Ballon d’Or for 2007, but as he prepares for the Champions League Final, he is already looking ahead to next season.
“I am always proud to be called up for the national team and, in view of a possible call for the Copa America, I believe I would not be in the ideal condition to give the performances expected of me at international level. I have not rested for three seasons,” said the letter printed on the Cbf official website.
As the Rossoneri cannot qualify in the top two of Serie A, they will have to go through a preliminary round in August – leaving Kaka precious little time to rest as the Copa America runs in Venezuela from June 26 to July 15.
“I thank you for your comprehension and with this letter formalise my request to be released from Copa America duty. My pride at wearing the Brazil shirt is untouched and I hope to feel that joy in other occasions.”
Before this request, only one other player had asked to be left out of the tournament, when Barcelona’s Ronaldinho pulled out.
Brazil Coach Carlos Dunga said he was “disappointed” at losing Kaka, but that this would be an opportunity for other players to shine.
