After a nearly a year long hiatus, Kaká is back in the Seleçāo.
Brazilian coach Dunga on Thursday announced his selection for the national team’s upcoming friendlies against the United States and Costa Rica. Brazil will face Costa Rica on September 5 at Red Bull Arena and the U.S. on September 8 at Gillette Stadium.
Just three days before Kaká will be at Gillette with his national team, his club team will be there for their pivotal match against the New England Revolution. With an even number of games played, Orlando City trails the Revs by just three points in the standings.
While being without their playmaker is tough, Kaká’s selection is a milestone for the league. The most successful footballing nation in the world called up one of MLS’ own, and it’s a sign not only of Kaká’s hard work and progress, but of the league’s as well.
“It shows that Dunga and people of that ilk in countries like Brazil are watching MLS,” said head coach Adrian Heath on Friday after training.
Take a glance at Brazil’s roster for the friendlies and look at the league’s from which Dunga made his selection: La Liga, the Premier League, and the Bundesliga, among others. Now, MLS is included on that list.
“It’s a big day for me,” said a Kaká smiling from ear to ear. He could barely hold back his excitement upon hearing the news that he would represent his country again. And as thrilled as he is to be back on the team, he realizes its importance to MLS.
“When I came, I said I would like to have some achievements as a player, [but also] as an ambassador of Orlando City and for the league. What’s happening in Orlando is very big,” said the captain.
Who better to represent Major League Soccer than the reigning All-Star MVP? Kaká’s achievements on the field and his personality and philanthropy off the it are known around the world, giving MLS and Orlando City a global ambassador of the utmost respect and integrity.
While the Lions will miss their captain for one match, Orlando City will have six regular-season games after their tilt with New England to continue collecting points in a playoff race that with every passing week looks as though it will go down to the wire.
But the Lions seem to be righting the ship after their recent skid, and their new acquisitions will certainly provide a boost of new energy.
“Like everybody, we’re delighted for him,” said Heath. “I think it shows how much hard work he’s put in over the last few months.”
