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Real Madrid attacker Kaka says he was surprised to be handed a Brazil call-up after a disappointing start to the season at a domestic level.
The 30-year-old is yet to make an appearance for the reigning La Liga champions this season, but has been recalled by national Coach Mano Menezes for the 2014 World Cup hosts' friendlies against Iraq and Japan in October.The 2007 Ballon d'Or winner has not featured for Brazil in two years, but his return is a timely one with less than two years to go until the World Cup in his home country.
- I admit it was a surprise this call. I followed the disclosure of the list for TV, mainly because I'd been told that my name might be one of those listed, Kaka told globoesporte.com.
- When the list was published, I was extremely happy. It was like my first call-up.
Struggled at Real Madrid
The former AC Milan star has appeared at the last three World Cups, but was worried he would be left out in the cold for 2014 after failing to secure a regular place in Jose Mourinho's side.
Kaka said his inability to earn a starting place came down to the system the Portuguese manager plays.
- Milan and Real Madrid play with different formations. In my time at Milan the club played with a 4-3-1-2 formation and I was the player behind the two strikers, he said.
- At Real, I play behind three. There is a greater defensive obligation, but I try to work around the area.
The former AC Milan star has appeared at the last three World Cups, but was worried he would be left out in the cold for 2014 after failing to secure a regular place in Jose Mourinho's side.
Kaka said his inability to earn a starting place came down to the system the Portuguese manager plays.
- Milan and Real Madrid play with different formations. In my time at Milan the club played with a 4-3-1-2 formation and I was the player behind the two strikers, he said.
- At Real, I play behind three. There is a greater defensive obligation, but I try to work around the area.
