Girlfriend Demands Four Ducklings From Pato

The Rossoneri star has been impressing on the pitch but also off it as his girlfriend reveals she wants to spend the rest of her life with him and she has already laid down the objectives for next season.

"Pato is my future and I want to spend my life by his side," Brito told Brazilian magazine 'Contigo'.

"I want to have four children with him because I come from a big family and I want to have a big family too.

"I want to get married in church as this has always been my dream."

Pato has been scoring on the pitch for Milan now it's time to do it off the turf.

Brito has risen to fame for her acting roles but, most notably, for her appearance in Playboy magazine when she turned 18.

Meanwhile, Milan are just one point off the top of Serie A following their 1-0 win over Atalanta on Sunday night, thanks to Kaka.

Salvatore Landolina

Alonso too slow for Juventus

Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri says Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is too slow.

Ranieri was close to signing the Spaniard in the summer and the former Chelsea boss has now revealed the reason.

He said: “He was a player we wanted.

“But he is a player, who even though he is an extraordinary man and a great professional, left me perplexed by the slowness of his movement in midfield.

“In the midfield of Rafa Benitez’s Liverpool, where all of them are little soldiers, he finds himself in a fantastic position.

“But in our midfield, he would have found it hard to support the midfield line seeing as Mauro Camoranesi and Pavel Nedved are not players that come back to give support like Liverpool’s wingers.”

[Source: The Sun]

Big Brother Milan Spy Players In Training

The Rossoneri have been a disaster during the first few games of the season, picking up back to back losses in the process.

Vice president Adriano Galliani has demanded answers and it seems as if coach Carlo Ancelotti is providing them, albeit on dvd.

Il Corriere Dello Sport claims the club have set up a number of state of the art cameras and equipment around their Milanello training ground in order to monitor their players levels of focus.

The equipment has been positioned above the pitch so that nothing is missed as the players are put under scrutiny.

Ancelotti will analyse the images alongside his staff and then he will use them to highlight where individual players are going wrong.

It’s a delicate moment at the club with a number of reports suggesting that Ancelotti’s time is running out on the bench.

This latest attempt to try and smooth over the bumpy road seems like a no nonsense way to get their best from his players.

No more laughing or joking around on the training ground then as the club toughens up its stance in light of the recent problems.  

Salvatore Landolina

Figo Inspires Me, Inter For The CL - Quaresma

Quaresma arrived at San Siro on the final day of the transfer window and he was brought in by Jose Mourinho to be Luis Figo’s successor when he decides to hang up his boots.
The former Porto man is delighted to have the opportunity of playing alongside his childhood hero and he believes that Inter can win both the Champions League and Scudetto this season.
"There was one player who I always used to try and copy when I was young and his name is Luis Figo," Quaresma told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
"He is so impressive and I always used to tell myself that I wanted to be just like him one day. It has gone even better for me as now I am playing alongside him.
"Inter has some great players and we are trying to aim for the Champions League and Scudetto. I am thinking about where Inter can go rather than what I can achieve."
Quaresma is likely to make his Serie A debut for the Nerazzurri this weekend when Jose Mourinho’s men welcome Walter Zenga and his Catania side to San Siro.
The ‘Special One’ is looking for maximum points following the 1-1 draw with Sampdoria in week one but Catania will be no easy feat.
Salvatore Landolina

Chasing Mutu Was A Waste Of Time - Conti

The Giallorossi were on the verge of signing the Romanian before the deal went up in smoke. Conti then played his part in wrapping up the transfers for Julio Baptista and Jeremy Menez and he is happy with the way the market turned out at Trigoria.

“Mutu? Seeing how things went, that situation was just a waste of time,” Conti told Il Messagero.

“Everything was in place for that deal but saying that we had our alternatives lined up and it all worked out well for us. We got the players we wanted and we are satisfied.

“Our philosophy here is to make sure that new and old players integrate well and make themselves always available.”

Conti also denied reports which claimed that the club had signed some players without the coach knowing.

“Every deal was done with all our consent. We have never done anything where the coach hasn’t been informed,” added Conti.

“There has always been a great relationship with Spalletti where there has been respect from both parties.

“Those who claim that the club made certain choices and the coach made others are simply lying.”

Roma have their eyes set on Champions League and Scudetto glory this season and the new arrivals are keen to impress and establish themselves in the Olimpico.

Salvatore Landolina

Mourinho's TV Fury

The special one recently had pay per view television installed at his home in Como by TV Cabo, a Portuguese broadcaster.

The installation of a satellite dish and two decoders went well and the coach was all smiles but that changed when his first bill dropped through his letter box.

Mourinho’s TV deal wasn’t so special as the former Chelsea man noticed he was invoiced with an €18.600 statement.

The coach grabbed the phone and called up the company and it turned out that the problem was an error with the conversion rate from Swiss Francs to Euros.

The right amount was €6.400 but Mourinho was still furious with the company for making the mistake and he showed no signs of backing down.

The Nerazzurri man used his tactics to turn the result in his favour as he managed to blag a €700 discount for the troubles he went through. He then received a bill for €5,648.

Mourinho was adamant on getting his reduction but the sum he had to pay must have seemed like loose change considering he earns around €9m per season at San Siro according to reports.

Moratti: Quaresma Is Fast & Classy

After a long transfer saga, Massimo Moratti finally brought Ricardo Quarsema to the San Siro at the request of coach Jose Mourinho for a hefty transfer fee. And the president seems extremely pleased at bringing the ex-Porto winger on board:

"Quaresma can add speed and class on the wings," explained the Nerrazzurri president. "He is another weapon besides Mancini and Figo. We hope he can be useful."

Many pundits believe that the draw against Sampdoria was the reason Quaresma was finally brought in and Moratti gave a quick word about the performance of his team in the match that ended 1-1 at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris.

"It was the result of a difficult match, even if there is no need to think it is a negative one," claimed Moratti. "The match was conducted well in the first half and a little less so after the restart, but this is the italian league and it's very difficult."

When asked if he thought he would have spent so much money on football when he first became Inter president, Moratti smiled, "I had hoped not."

Inter's next match will be at the San Siro when they host Sicilian side Catania, who were victorious over Geona in their match on Sunday afternoon.

Adam Scime

Milan make losing start

AC Milan started the new Serie A season with a dismal 2-1 defeat at home to Bologna.

Goals from Marco Di Vaio and Francesco Valiani gave the visitors a famous win in the San Siro, but Rossoneri coach Carlo Ancelotti remained philosophical.

He said: "It was a bit of a strange game, but I think there have been quite a few surprise results at the start of the season when teams aren't entirely up to speed.

"I don't think the side played badly or was lacking in any area. We attacked for 90 minutes and were punished by the only two chances Bologna created."

AS Roma were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Napoli, while Alberto Gilardino netted a last-minute equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw at home to Juventus.

Torino were comfortable 3-0 winners at home to Lecce, while Mauro Zarate scored twice in Lazio's resounding 4-1 success at Cagliari.

Atalanta edged out Siena 1-0, while Catania beat Genoa by the same scoreline.

Newly-promoted Chievo beat Reggina 2-1, with Vincenzo Italiano grabbing the winner two minutes from time.

Mourinho Angers Inter Fans

On Wednesday about 2,000 Nerazzurri fans were present at the training grounds of Appiano Gentile to watch their favourite players train. However, Mourinho decided to have the training session on an inside pitch, with the fans 100 metres away and therefore hardly visible.

Many of the fans had taken an off day in order to follow their team prior to the 'Ferragosto' holidays, but in the end were disappointed by the treatment reserved to them.

This led them to sing songs in favour of former coach Mancini and in opposition of 'the special one'.

Apparently Mourinho is afraid of spies and does not want to reveal his plans to anyone before the start of the season, but this decision has most likely harmed his relationship with the Inter die-hards.

Glenn Debattista

Mourinho Furious Over Ibrahimovic

Ibrahimovic has had a depressing time of things with injuries this calendar year, and missed a large portion of Inter’s Scudetto run-in due to a chronic knee injury.

The problem also complicated his Euro 2008 tournament with Sweden, and there were fears that these issues were all set to continue into the 2008/09 campaign when he limped off the pitch, last month, just 20 minutes into his first pre-season training session with the Nerazzurri.

The 26-year-old only returned to training a few weeks ago, and had been working his way back into action, impressing during the Amsterdam Tournament last week, and starting the 1-0 win over Ajax.

Mourinho has been key not to push Ibrahimovic for the fear of a relapse, and he is said to be absolutely furious after hearing that the forward has been called up by Sweden coach Lars Lagerback for the country’s friendly with France next week.

This has all been made worse by the injury sustained by fellow striker Adriano today, with initial reports suggesting that the Brazilian could be sidelined for an extended period of time.

Paloschi: I Want Milan Stay

The 18-year-old Paloschi, who burst onto the Italian scene last season, had last month been on the verge of moving to Torino on a season-long loan deal.

The transfer was all set to be completed until a serious injury in training to Marco Borriello plunged Milan into something of a forward crisis.
With Pippo Inzaghi and Kaka also sidelined, and Ronaldinho and Alexandre Pato going to the Olympics, Paloschi was only the fit striker available, and thus his transfer to Torino was scrapped.
Over the last few days there have been renewed reports that Paloschi could still leave on loan before the end of the transfer window, with Serie B side Bari named as a possible destination.
"I do not know where I'll be playing, but this season I aim to score more goals than last season," Paloschi told the Gazzetta dello Sport.
"Bari? AC Milan will find the best solution.
"With the Rossoneri I'm living a beautiful experience: growing, watching and learning.”
Paloschi did not even have a holiday this summer after immediately joining Milan’s pre-season camp at the end of Italy’s Under-19 European Championship campaign, which the Azzurrini finished as runners-up.
Roberto Rossi

Juve Line Up ‘New Adebayor’

The 19-year-old Nimani is rated as one of France’s brightest young talents, and he hit the headlines at the weekend during the opening day of the new French championship when he scored the winner in Monaco’s 1-0 victory over Claude Makelele’s Paris Saint Germain.

Nimani, at 6ft 3in, is well suited to the modern game with his power and technique, and for this reason he has been labelled in some circles as the ‘new Emmanuel Adebayor’, in reference to the Arsenal star who also formerly played for Monaco.

The teenager’s potential has not passed unnoticed, and Tuttosport claims that Juventus are considering making a move for the striker.

The Biaconeri are also being linked with Le Mans forward Mamadou Samassa. The 22-year-old, a Mali native, plays for the France Under-21s, and is renowned for his ability to hold up the ball, and bring team-mates into play.

Ancelotti: Mourinho Is Provocative

Mourinho has been heavily criticised in the Italian press over the past week or so, following his stunning attack on Juventus boss Claudio Ranieri.

Ancelotti has now had his say on the matter, and while he insists that he gets on well with ‘The Special One’, he says that the Portuguese does like to provoke.

“Mourinho is a unique person,” Carletto told the Corriere dello Sport.

“I know him and I think he’s very nice but he likes to court the Press and he can be provocative.

“The important thing is to keep your tongue in your cheek and I have enjoyed exchanging remarks with him. You just can’t take things too seriously.”

Ancelotti then turned to Milan’s pre-season preparations, which up until this point have been nothing short of disastrous.

The Rossoneri have suffered a spate of injuries in defence and attack, and they lost once again at the weekend, 1-0 at Manchester City.

“I didn’t expect things to be so difficult at this stage,” Ancelotti sighed.

“The defence isn’t working and neither is the attack. Only the midfield has been good.

“I know that Alessandro Nesta should recover quickly, but we don’t know how long he will take to return to the squad.”

Milan are expected to complete the loan signing of Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic in the coming hours in order to ease the pressure on their defence.

Roberto Rossi

Milan Enter Race For Freddie

The 31-year-old is currently a free agent after being released from his four year contract at West Ham last week.

Ljungberg struggled badly after signing for The Hammers from Arsenal last year, making 30 appearances, and scoring just four goals.

The East London outfit were keen to get the Swede’s reported £80,000 salary off their wage bill, and Ljungberg is now searching for a club ahead of the new season.

The midfielder is still admired in Italy following his outstanding nine years with Arsenal between 1998 and 2007, where he was instrumental in winning two Premier Leagues and three FA Cups.

Ljungberg is already a reported target for Lazio, but sources in Italy claim that Milan are also ready to offer the veteran a contract.

The Rossoneri are looking to sign an alternative in the attacking midfield role given the injury troubles to Kaka, and Ljungberg could be the man for the job.

The former Halmstads man, who has won 80 caps for Sweden, is said to be tempted by a move to Milan, given the fact that the city is known as one of the fashion center's of Europe. Ljungberg is a male model, and is known for his love of fashion.

Roberto Rossi

Spiderman Predicts Mid-Table Finish For Catania

The Sicilians have been very active in the summer transfer market, and have made a number of impressive signings, including the likes of Pablo Ledesma from Boca Juniors, Ezequiel Carboni from Red Bull Salzburg and Nicolae Dica from Steaua Bucharest.

The new players have settled in well to their new surroundings, winning 10 of their 11 pre-season friendlies, including a 3-2 victory against Romanian side Progresul yesterday.

“Ledesma, Carboni and Dica will be the backbone of the side,” Zenga stated.

“With those three in the squad I am confident that we can finish in the middle of the pack.

“They have shown great movement and they are able to do unpredictable things, which pleases me.

“As a whole we are working well and I have been happy with what I have seen in the training camp in Assisi and in our friendlies.”

The 48-year-old Zenga took over the reigns at Catania from Silvio Baldini at the beginning of April and helped the Sicilians to survival last term.

Anthony Sormani

Ibrahimovic Is Something Else - Mourinho

The Sweden international returned to action for the Nerazzurri against Sevilla on Friday night during the Amsterdam tournament.  

Ibra has been out with injury but he has made a full recovery. The ‘Special One’ is delighted at having him available and he is full of praise for the hit-man.  

“With Ibrahimovic the team is something else. He is amongst the first players in the team,” Mourinho told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.  
“When I see him in training I never stop being surprised from what he does.  

“He will be playing against Ajax. I won’t be bothered about the result, I just want to see Ibra get better and better.”  

The Nerazzurri take on the Eredivisie side this evening in the final match of the friendly tournamet.  

Ibrahimovic was stunning last term and his strikes against Parma on the final day of the season ensured it was Inter who lifted the Scudetto and not Roma.  

Salvatore Landolina

Juventus To Offer €5m For Ivanovic

The Bianconeri have returned to the market following injuries to Dario Knezevic and Christian Molinaro.  

Reports claim that the Italian side initially wanted to take the stopper on loan, but they are now looking to sign him on a permanent deal.  

Juve are currently looking for back-up as they prepare to get through the Champions League preliminaries and Ivanovic may arrive sooner rather than later.  

Il Corriere Dello Sport claims that transfer guru, Alessio Secco and Juve chief executive Jean Claude Blanc have already met with Chelsea, and are ready to offer the Blues €5m to sign the player on a permanent basis.  

Claudio Ranieri has requested the player and it’s likely he will get him as Ivanovic has not played a game in six months and he doesn’t seem part of Felipe Scolari’s plans.  

The Bianconeri will be hoping to have the deal signed, sealed and delivered by the end of the week so they can fly back to Turin with a souvenir from their English tour.  

Salvatore Landolina      

Mourinho To Ranieri: You Are Old And Fruitless

Ranieri had mentioned Mourinho during his sour grapes press conference after Juventus lost 3-0 to Hamburg.  

“I am not like Mourinho, I don’t have to win things to be sure of myself,” moaned Ranieri.  

This has prompted a reaction from the ‘Special One’ who just couldn’t help himself from taking aim, and gunning the Old Lady coach down with some heavy words.  

“I am in Italy to work hard rather than take part in a war of words,” Mourinho told Inter Channel.  

“I want to do well with Inter and do the best possible for us and to forget about the work of others.  

“Ranieri? I guess he’s right with what he said I am very demanding of myself and I have to win to be sure of things.  

“This is why I have won so many trophies in my career. Ranieri on the other hand has the mentality of someone who doesn’t need to win. He is almost 70 years old.  

“He has won a Supercup and another small trophy and he is too old to change his mentality.  

“He’s old and he hasn’t won anything.”  

The coach also spoke about Zlatan Ibrahimovic and he believes the Sweden star is better than Kaka and Lionel Messi.  

“Seeing Ibrahimovic in training makes me understand how Special he is,” said the coach.  

“Messi? Kaka? Ronaldinho? Ibrahimovic is the special one.”  

Mourinho’s words are likely to cause some controversy.  

The coach claimed he was not prepared to have a verbal fight with the rest only to eat his words and add petrol to the fire.  

Salvatore Landolina 

I Will Be Ready For The Start Of Serie A, Promises Kaka

Kaka is confident that he will not miss the start of Serie A as he has some more weeks to recover from the injury he suffered recently.

"Let's see how long this injury will take: there is still one month before the start, therefore there is all the time to cure myself," explained the Brazilian ace.

"I exclude any other surgeries. My return on the pitch has been agreed, therefore there is no hurry."

Kaka also believes that the Milan side which faced Chelsea on Sunday has nothing to do with the real team which will be playing in the upcoming season.

"We are still preparing ourselves, we have some missing players and others have not arrived yet.

"However, this will not happen again as these are things which we cannot allow to happen when we wear this shirt, but only at the end of the month things will get serious," concluded the midfielder.

Glenn Debattista

Tendonitis To Rule Kaka Out Of Pre-Season

The chronic injury was largely responsible for Ronaldinho's troubles last season and has also prevented Owen Hargreaves from playing as regularly as he would have liked for Manchester United during their double-winning season.

Milan's official website have revealed that the World Player of the Year will undergo specialist treatment in the coming days following “a persistent inflammation of the left knee", with the 26-year-old having to be withdrawn during Friday's loss to Sevilla.

There are already fears that, given this was the same knee that caused him to miss most of last season, the attacking midfielder may endure a similarly torrid campaign this year.

With Ronaldinho and Alexandre Pato at the Olympics and Marco Borriello ruled out for two months, Kaka's presence is crucial to the Rossoneri in the early goings of this season, with even Filippo Inzaghi struggling with muscle problems.

Youngster Alberto Paloschi is currently the only fully fit striker available to coach Carlo Ancelotti, with O Globo contending that Kaka will need at least two weeks to fully recover from the injury.

Tendonitis is a notoriously persistent injury and often, once diagnosed, can rarely be permanently cured.

Santino Santoro, Goal.com

Mourinho Eyes Barcelona Stopper

he Nerazzurri have been hit by a large number of injuries during pre-season and their defence has taken the brunt.  

The race is now on to find some cover and so far the Nerazzurri haven’t been successful. Matteo Ferrari and Mirel Radoi were tipped to arrive but this has not happened.  

The ‘Special One’ is now looking to his old side, Barcelona to provide the answers.  

Calciomercato claims that Marquez may be another alternative as Mourinho is desperate for a defender.  

The Mexican doesn’t seem to be a part of Josep Guardiola’s plans at Camp Nou for the new season and he could leave.  

Marquez may arrive on a permanent basis or he may be taken on loan as this would be the easier option for Inter.  

Marco Materazzi, Ivan Cordoba and Cristian Chivu are all injured.    

It is therefore vital that new stoppers are brought in before the start of the new campaign if the club are to defend their Scudetto crown.  

Salvatore Landolina

Maldini: I Want The Scudetto

The Rossoneri lost to Sevilla on Friday night in the Russian Railways tournament, but on a more positive note, Maldini returned to the side following injury.  

The number three played well and he is looking forward to the new season where Scudetto glory is a priority.  

“I am delighted with my return,” said the 40-year-old.  

“My principal objective this year is to win the Scudetto even if the UEFA Cup is also important.  

“However, if I was to choose between the two, it would be the Tricolore.”  

The Rossoneri qualified for the UEFA Cup following a less than perfect season in Serie A.  

The Milan board have always claimed that this year the Scudetto would be priority, which has led to speculation that the club will snub the UEFA Cup.  

Maldini’s words seem to back-up the club’s stance.  

Salvatore Landolina

Silva Talks With Roma Very Advanced - Villalonga

The former head of Telefónica pledged to ensure that the current Valencia board do not plunge the club further in to debt and strip away its assets to cover the problems.

Last month, Villalonga looked set to take over at the helm of the Mestalla, but was denied the chance to buy Juan Soler's majority shareholding and was removed.

Having claimed that he had the financial backing to pay Valencia's debts in the short-term and avoid having sell Silva or David Villa, both players are back on the market after his exit.

"Negotiations for the sale of David Silva to Roma for €25m plus €5m more are well advanced. And I talk about the €5m because I know what the deal is," he told Marca.

"But I will never abandon my struggle and will keep going so I can reach the place that history has for me.

"We are going to avoid their tragedy and I will be watching every operation that the current team carry out to ensure that our club is not endangered."

Villalonga is still intent on becoming president, but has asked the club's supporters to keep up with their demonstrations against the current way the club is being run.

"I advise all fans and followers of Valencia to watch out, and say that from the heart, because our club is in play as there is now no way of raising the necessary capital to pay the mortgage," he continued.

"All our assets, starting with the most important players of our historic club will be sold."

Villalonga has also claimed that during his brief spell at the helm that the he stopped David Silva from being sold to Real Madrid.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Shevchenko To Milan Imminent

A number of reports have claimed the Ukrainian international is not really a part of the Blues plans this season and an imminent exit is on the cards.  

With a number of injuries affecting Milan up front, the club have found themselves in crisis and they are desperate for a proven striker.  

Shevchenko has always revealed his ambition to rejoin the club at some point in his career and he may do so as early as next week.  

Il Corriere Dello Sport claims that Milan officials will meet up with the player during the friendly Russian Railways tournament which takes place next week in Moscow and will involve Chelsea, Lokomotiv, Sevilla and, of course, Milan.  

Carlo Ancelotti was quick to reveal that he would welcome Sheva back to San Siro with open arms.  

“If I see Shevchenko in Moscow I will say hello to him. The player will not go to any other Italian club apart from Milan,” said the coach.  

Shevchenko remains a hero in Milan having scored 127 goals in 208 appearances for the club and Rossoneri fans will be eager for his return.  

Agent - Kaka happy at Milan

Kaka's agent has insisted that the reported Chelsea target is happy at AC Milan and is not looking to move on.

The Brazil playmaker has been linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge, but the Rossoneri have no interest in allowing their star man to leave.
And Gaetano Paolillo insists his client is content at the San Siro, where he is under contract until 2013.
"Kaka has always been happy at Milan and he still is," he said.
"He has a special feeling with the fans and with everyone. His family is happy at Milan."
Last season, Spanish champions Real Madrid made a bid for the 26-year-old but their efforts were rebuffed. They revived their interest again this year but with the same result.
Paolillo is not surprised by the interest shown in Kaka by top European clubs.

Dreams

"It's normal that every year big clubs like Chelsea and Real Madrid make offers to sign key players like Kaka," he added.
"When (Chelsea owner Roman) Abramovich's offer came to light, Real contacted us to say that if the player was up for sale they would be interested as well."
Paolillo has not ruled out the possibility of Kaka playing for Chelsea one day but believes that all depends on Milan's intentions.
"(Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe) Scolari has infinite affection for Kaka but regardless of this, for Abramovich, Kaka is the dream that is missing, Kaka is in his dreams," said Paolillo.
"It will depend on Milan. If (AC Milan owner Silvio) Berlusconi wants to keep him at Milan it will be difficult for Kaka to leave.
"If a player is happy he remains in a squad."

Ibra Returns To Training Following Injury

The Super Swede has had a miserable time of things with injuries this calendar year, and missed a large portion of the Nerazzurri’s Scudetto run-in due to a chronic knee injury.

The problem also complicated his Euro 2008 tournament with Sweden, as he played just a half of the 2-1 defeat to Spain, while he also looked short of fitness during the 2-0 loss to Russia.

There were fears that Ibrahimovic’s problems were all set to continue into the new campaign when he limped off the pitch last week just 20 minutes into his first pre-season training session with Inter.

The 26-year-old has now returned to training though with the rest of his team-mates, and he should definitely be fit in time for the new season.

Meanwhile, Inter have a friendly this evening against Saudi Arabian champions Al Hilal. Adriano will start up-front in his first game for the club since last October, and he will be supported in a trident strike force by Mario Balotelli and Luis Figo.

Mourinho: Signing Ronaldo Was 'Impossible'

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Ronaldo’s future remains as uncertain as ever, with Real Madrid still intent on landing the Portuguese winger while United remain unmoved in their desire to keep the 23-year-old.

Los Merengues are willing to shell out up to ₤70million to bring the Seleccao superstar to the Bernabeu, a fee that would comfortably eclipse the ₤46million they spent on Zinedine Zidane in 2001.

Mourinho was known for spending significant portions of Roman Abramovich’s money during his Chelsea days, regularly parting with over ₤100million-per-summer to build and maintain a title-winning machine.

But the Special One confessed that even he could never have hoped to lure Ronaldo to Stamford Bridge, insisting such a ploy would have been unrealistic.

"Ronaldo was the kind of player you know for sure you cannot get," Mourinho said on Ford's FeelFootball.com.

"I always try to be objective, I always try to be realistic and I never ask a club to try something that I know is impossible."

However, the former Porto boss admitted the rivalry between the Blues and the Red Devils played a big part in his not making a move for Ronaldo – barriers a foreign club, such as Real Madrid, would not have to cross.

"It depends on the club, it depends on the situation," Mourinho continued.

"For example, Arsenal sold Thierry Henry to Barcelona. Would they sell Thierry Henry to Chelsea? No, no, no I don't think so.

"So I think you have to be realistic, and Ronaldo was never in my mind, far from it."

Madrid Have Asked About Kaká - Galliani

Los Merengues made contact with the Rossoneri amid reports that Chelsea are preparing a mega offer for the Brazilian star and want to ensur that they do not miss out. Milan's vice-president, Adriano Galliani, confirmed that the Spanish giants had made enquiries, but then reiterated that the player would not be going anywhere this summer. "I was on Abramovich's boat," he said. "I wanted to talk about Shevchenko and he wanted to talk about Kaká, but in the end nothing happened. "On the other hand, I can say that Madrid have again asked about Kaká." Ramón Calderón has already seen his popularity sorely tested over the Milan star after promising to sign both him and Cesc Fàbregas during his race for the Madrid presidency. Arjen Robben was the club's third choice and while he arrived, fans have not forgotten the club's supremo's failure to keep his promise on the more cherished stars. The Madrid chief is currently under pressure after spending the summer making assurances that Ronaldo would be joining from Manchester United, only for the tide appearing to be turning against him. Chelsea's interest in Kaká appears to be going nowhere with Milan dismissing reports that they had received a mega offer or were ready to accept one. "We will never sell him," Galliani added. Even if we received an offer of €300m from Chelsea. The only way we would ever consider letting him go is if it was his desire."
Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Ancelotti Thanks Milan For Successful Summer

Ancelotti’s head was on the chopping block following an indifferent campaign that saw Milan finish fifth in Serie A after losing out to Fiorentina in the race for Champions League qualification.

Many believed it was time for a fresh start at San Siro, with wholesale changes to the playing squad and coaching necessary for the club to move forward and reclaim their throne at the very pinnacle of Italian football.

But surprisingly few names have been scratched off the Rossoneri payroll this summer – underperforming striker Alberto Gilardino is perhaps the only major exit to have taken place thus far.

Indeed, of far more note are the additions, especially that of Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho, who followed Gianluca Zambrotta this week by completing the switch from Barcelona.

Ancelotti is thankful for the club’s investment in the transfer market, and is adamant his side can push for their first league title since 2004 and their first-ever UEFA Cup crown.

Competitive

“First of all I need to thank the club for what they have done,” he said on Milan’s official website. “The efforts were important after a very unusual year.

“We now have a very competitive squad and we are preparing to play the new season with a lot of motivation and enthusiasm. As Adriano Galliani said our primary objective will be the Scudetto, but to win the Uefa Cup would also be a great experience.

“The final will be played in Istanbul and we have a bad memory of that city which we want to cancel.”

Enthusiasm

Ronaldinho’s arrival at San Siro has met with mixed opinions. Some believe the two-time FIFA World Player of the Year will give the team an extra spark of creativity up front, while others claim he is past his best, unfit and would serve only to intrude upon Kaka’s natural playing style.

But Ancelotti had nothing but praise the for 28-year-old: “He has arrived and immediately brought a big wave of enthusiasm. I expect him to make himself available to play in the best possible conditions and express himself at his own high levels.”

Biography Ricardo Kaka

Family

Kaká's younger brother Rodrigo Izecson Dos Santos Leite, known as Digão , followed in his brother's footsteps and is currently on loan with Serie B team Rimini , after having spent some time in the AC Milan youth squad.

Nickname

Ricardo "Kaka"

The nickname Kaká , from his native Portuguese , is pronounced as it is spelt. The accent would signify that the stress is on the second syllable. In Italian , the language of his current team, the phonetic equivalent is written as Kakà , which is used for Italian television graphics. However, the player's shirt name is spelt KAKA' (with an apostrophe , rather than an accented 'A') for both Brazil and Milan.

An internet discussion forum explains the nickname as a commonly used shortened form of "Ricardo" in Portuguese. Kaká is supposed to have got his nickname because his little brother Rodrigo could not pronounce the word "Ricardo" when they were young. Rodrigo called his older brother "Caca" which the latter later changed to "Kaká".

Accident

Kaka points to the sky

Kaká suffered an accident when he made a faulty jump off a diving-board, resulting in a vertebra fracture. This could have meant the end of his football career, but he believes that Jesus allowed him to recover and become the successful footballer he is now. When AC Milan won the Serie A title in 2004, Ricky, as he is called by his team-mates, sported a shirt with an "I Belong to Jesus" slogan. He also points his fingers to the sky as a sign of thanks every time he scores, for apparently the same reason.
Marriage

Kaka and Caroline

Kaká married Caroline Celico on 23 December 2005 at the evangelical Reborn in Christ Church in Sao Paulo , Brazil, in a wedding attended by fellow players from his national team, as well as other well known international players. Guests included Ronaldo , Adriano , Cafu , Dida , Julio Baptista and Brazilian national coach Carlos Alberto Parreira . Caroline and Kaká first met in 2002, and started dating soon after. The relationship survived Kaká's move from Sao Paulo to Italy in 2003, while Caroline was still at school. It is likely that Caroline will stay in Brazil in the short-run, but the couple plan to live together in Italy very soon.

Teams São Paulo FC 2000 - 2003 AC Milan 2003 - Present Achievements AC Milan Debuts Serie A International Competitions Italy's Cup Italy's Supercup 1.9.2003 16.9.2003 3.12.2003 21.8.2004 Ancona-Milan 0-2 Milan-Ajax 1-0 Sampdoria-Milan 0-1 Milan-Lazio 3-0 Honours and Achievements World Cup Brazilian Golden Ball European Super Cup Italian League Best Foreign Player of Serie A Italian Super Cup 2002 2002 2003 2004 2004 2004 Confederations Cup Uefa CL Best Midfielder FIFPRO World XI Player Awards UEFA European Cup European Player Of The YearEuropean Best Forward Fifa World Player Of The Year 2005 2005 2006 2007 2007 2007 2007

International Career One of the best Brazilians Kaká made his international debut in January2002 against Bolivia. He was a part of the national squad at the 2002 World Cup, but did not see much action even as Brazil won the World Championship, playing just 19 minutes of a first round match against Costa Rica. Later, he was in action at the 2004 Copa América and the 2005 Confederations Cup, which were both won by Brazil, with Kakà scoring in the Confederation Cup final win over Argentina. He finished in joint tenth place in the voting for the 2004FIFA World Player of the Year award. In the 2005 competition he finished two places higher. More recently, he has helped Brazil qualify for the 2006 World Cup. Kaká has matured as a player and is currently considered one of the best Brazilian footballers. Club Career Kaka in São Paulo FC Kaká made his debut at São Paulo FC in 2001 when he was only 19 years old. That season he scored 12 goals in 27 appearances, and a further 10 goals in 22 appearances the following season, soon attracting attention from European clubs, and it was Milan who won the race to sign him. He joined Milan in 2003 for an €8.5m fee. His first appearance came in a match at Ancona, which Milan won 2-0. In all, he scored 10 goals in 30 appearances that season, winning the Italian Serie A Championship and the European Super Cup. Fantastic in AC Milan Kaká was an integral part of the team in the 2004-05 season, usually playing in a withdrawn role behind team-mate and good friend, striker Andriy Shevchenko, in a five-man midfield. He scored 7 goals in 36 league appearances, and also won the the Italian Super Cup with the club. Milan finished second to Juventus in the Serie A, and lost the UEFA Champions League final to Liverpool on penalty kicks. He was, however, voted the best midfielder in the European tournament. He also ended up ninth position on the 2005Golden Ball standing, earning 19 votes. One of his more famous goals was the one against Fenerbahçe SK, in AC Milan's first game in the 2005-06 Champions League, won 3-1 by the Rossoneri . Kakà started his run from midfield and skipped past three tackles before entering the area and finishing with a low shot under the goal-keeper. He wears the number 22 shirt for the club. Source : Wikipedia

Kaka beaming after Ronnie move

AC Milan hotshot and Brazilian international midfielder Kaka has expressed his joy and delight after it was announced late on Tuesday night that his club have eventually signed Ronaldinho from FC Barcelona.

It was announced late in Tuesday that Ronaldinho would join Milan on a three year contract worth 20 million euros for a transfer for of potentially 25 million euros.

Kaka, who is the main and most important player at Milan, has always wanted Ronaldinho to join Milan and has never even remotely thought that he and his compatriot cannot play together.

Now that Milan have finally made Ronaldinho their own, this is what the reigning World Player of the Year had to say about the two times former World Player of the Year:

"I'm very happy with the arrival of Ronaldinho, who will bring much talent and quality to Milan and this will enable us to fight for all titles.

Milan secure Ronaldinho on the cheap as Barcelona pay for ham-fisted exit strategy

Reads a statement released by Milan: "AC Milan and FC Barcelona have reached an agreement for the transfer of Ronaldinho. "Tomorrow, the player will be in Milan for the medical, and to sign the contract which will tie him to Milan until June 30th 2011." This announcement brings to an end months of speculation over the Brazilian's future. He had been on the outer at Barcelona pretty much since El Clasico in December, with his private life, his fitness and his bulging waistline making more headlines than his performances on the pitch. Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard, always one to back him given what they had achieved together, had to drop him due to his dropping fitness levels, and once Pep Guardiola was announced as the new coach in early May, a summer exit for the two time World Player of the Year was only a matter of time. Chelsea and Milan were the early frontrunners, with the player himself expressing a desire to team up with Luiz Felipe Scolari once again last month. However, Big Phil was not too keen, and Manchester City subsequently came into the fray. But with Chelsea out, there was only going to be one winner, and that had been clear for two weeks now. City had a superior financial offer for Barca, but as with many things these days, the player's will had the final say and a deal was struck with Milan after intense negotiations between Adriano Galliani, Joan Laporta and Roberto de Assis. During his five years in Spain, Ronaldinho won two La Liga titles (2004-05, 2005-06), one Champions League (2005-06), the World player of the Year award twice (2004, 2005), and the Ballon d'Or (2005). He leaves on a low, but when the dust settles, he will go down as one of the best to ever play for Barcelona - as much for what he won as for the way he heralded a new era for the club following the collapse of Real Madrid's 'Galactico' policy. Some of his best displays also came on the biggest of stages - a sensational left footed strike against Milan in the Champions League in 2004, two more against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge that almost saw Barcelona through single handedly later that season, and then that sublime assist for Ludovic Giuly at San Siro a year later - which guaranteed Barcelona's progress to the final. However, perhaps the crowning moment was his stunning showing at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2005, when he got a standing ovation from the Real Madrid fans after two goals and a mesmerising display of football in a 3-0 win. The challenge for Milan now will be to get the player back to peak fitness, before we even speak of form. He still has the magic in his feet as we saw from his two goals on his return to football a couple of weeks ago, but whether he can roll back the years and offer the Rossoneri the kind of service he did to Barcelona, remains to be seen. His ability against rigid Italian defenses will also be tested to the limit. It will also be very interesting to see how he fits into the team, and whether Ronaldinho, Kaka, Alexandre Pato, Andrea Pirlo and Clarence Seedorf (who has openly opposed this move) can play together. Barcelona, in the meantime, are expected to announce the signing of Aliaksandr Hleb, with Arsenal seemingly having given the nod following the signing of Samir Nasri from Marseille.

Zanetti To Lampard: Come Here And We'll Win Everything,

Inter captain Javier Zanetti gave an interview in which he talked about coach Jose Mourinho, Frank Lampard, Amantino Mancini, and the prospects for next season.

Asked if he thought Jose Mourinho is the right coach to take Inter all the way in the Champions League, he said: "I think so. I'm glad the president chose him and I was very happy he called me right after signing the contract. He has great experience, the results say it all."

On Frank Lampard: "Lampard is a great player who would be really useful to us. I know that president Moratti, along with Branca and Oriali, is trying to get him here at all costs, but from I've read it won't be easy.

"What message I send to him? If he comes here, we will welcome him the way we have always done with our champions and together we will try to win everything."

On the arrival of Amantino Mancini from Roma: "I'm happy about that. He's an excellent player, as he showed with Roma: he goes past players with great ease and often creates the numerical superiority which is very important for the way we play."

On the competition next season in Serie A: "I'm sure it will be a very balanced season. Roma will try to continue doing well. Juventus are preparing an excellent squad. Fiorentina are not to be underestimated, and of course there is Milan."

Totti Won't Rule Out Azzurri Return

With the recovery from his knee injury proceeding well, Roma captain Francesco Totti talked about his desire to be on the pitch for the Italian Supercup match against champions Inter, and continued not to rule out a return to the Italian national team.

On his feelings after the latest checkup to his knee, he said: "I already felt good after the first control visit, but it was the confirmation things are going steadily.

"Did I miss the ball? Well, a little, but I've been kicking it for about two or three weeks, unlike the first month and a half when I was focusing only on getting my leg back in shape. When I saw I was almost cured, I immediately started to kick the ball to see how the knee would react. I think it's going well.

"I always aimed to get better for the 24th of August for the match against Inter: if things keep going like this, I think and hope I will make it, but the important thing is to come back when I'm completely fit."

On Italy coach Marcello Lippi's comments that he respects his goodbye to the national team, Totti said: "Lippi said the right thing, I think. With him I have a relationship of great respect, also off the pitch, so we speak often. Now, with him being the new national team coach, he will decide. Right now I'm thinking only about getting back in shape.

"Do I think about coming back to the Azzurri? I've never talked about it with him, we'll see later on. Anything could still happen..."

Kaká Not Leaving For Olympics - Milan

With a note on their official website, AC Milan wanted to silence the rumours going around in Brazil concerning Kaká's possible participation to the Beijing Olympics with the Brazilian national team.

"Following the news stories which appeared in Brazil today concerning Kaká's possible participation to the Beijing Olympics," it says on the note, "A.C. Milan reiterate the position already expressed earlier, not allowing the player to join the Brazilian Olympic team."

Kaká's Milan team mate Pato probably will be a part of the Brazilian squad, and there were even rumours that Andrea Pirlo and Filippo Inzaghi would join the Italian squad in Beijing.

Becks admits Milan interest

David Beckham has revealed he came close to joining Milan before he signed for Los Angles Galaxy.

The England midfielder left Real Madrid in 2007 and accepted a surprise offer to move to America with LA.

However, former Manchester United star Beckham has now admitted that he also gave serious consideration to a switch to the San Siro after receiving interest from Milan.

"It was an opportunity which I thought about a lot," Beckham said in Gazzetta dello Sport.

"After Manchester United and Real Madrid, I could have gone to another high level club in Milan.

Capello gratitude

"They are the club which I support in Serie A and they have played really good football for many years."

Meanwhile, Beckham has reiterated his gratitude to England manager Fabio Capello for offering him the opportunity to continue playing at international level.

Despite playing in America, Beckham remains in Capello's plans and he is relishing the chance to add to his 102 appearances for his country.

"Being given another chance and being back in the squad, and being part of the team, is one of the things Fabio Capello has brought," Beckham told Sky Sports News.

"He brings that passion. Being part of the team again is exciting and I' m honoured."

Sky Sport

Mancini set for Inter move

Mancini is expected to seal his switch to the San Siro for a fee of €13million (10.4million) on Monday.

The 27-year-old is set to become manager Jose Mourinho's first signing since the Portuguese took over at the club in June.

Director Gabriele Oriali told the club's official website: "We have reached an economic agreement with Roma, which will be ratified next week when the player arrives."

Mancini added: "I'm really happy it ended in this way. Inter are a great side, but I want to thank Roma for these last five years.

Milan Admit Adebayor & Drogba Interest

The Rossoneri have made no secret of their intentions to sign a world class centre forward this summer, and several weeks ago coach Carlo Ancelotti named both Arsenal’s Adebayor and Chelsea’s Drogba on a four-man striker shortlist.

Milan’s attempts to buy either of these two players has proved frustrating, and it had appeared last week that they had given up all hope.

However it was reported in the Italian press this morning that the Diavoli had reignited their interest in Adebayor, and now Leonardo admits that they also still hold an interest in Drogba too.

“It’s no secret that we’re interested in signing a forward and we are looking at candidates,” the Brazilian told BBC Sport.

“Drogba is a fine player and I really like Adebayor. We are just waiting for the right time to make a move."

Leonardo also bemoaned the fact that Italian clubs do not hold the financial power that their English and Spanish counterparts do.

“We have to accept that the incomes of the top English and Spanish teams are greater than they are in Italy and it’s very hard for us to compete,” he explained.

“But we can offer other things. We have a first-class environment for players and a wonderful history.”

Leonardo represented Milan as a player from 1997 to 2001 and 2002 to 2003.

Galliani To Milan Fans: Stop Complaining

The Rossoneri faithful have been very critical over the limited spending during recent seasons, and earlier this week, fans staged a protest demanding that owner Silvio Berlusconi sells the club to someone willing to spend money.

Galliani, however, believes that these protests are ridiculous, particularly when you consider that the likes of Marco Borriello, Gianluca Zambrotta and Mathieu Flamini have already been signed this summer.

“We do not have a transfer kitty stashed away here,” the transfer guru told La Stampa.

“Despite failing to qualify for the Champions League, the club is strengthening the squad and increasing the wages. This means we’ll be £35m in the red without Berlusconi’s help.

“The fans should be happy, as all we’d need to do in order to wipe out or debts is sell Kaka and Andrea Pirlo. Instead they won’t move, so if that’s not a show of love for this side, I don’t know what is.

“It is incredible that the supporters are not celebrating the arrival of Marco Borriello, who scored 19 goals last season, the fact Alexandre Pato can finally play a full campaign, Mathieu Flamini from Arsenal and World Cup winner Gianluca Zambrotta.

“As a fan, I too hope something else will happen, but Milan have already reinforced their squad.”

Galliani also commented on the latest situation regarding targets Ronaldinho and Emmanuel Adebayor, and he confirmed that while a deal for the former is possible, the latter won’t be arriving at San Siro.

“Ronaldinho is not in Pep Guardiola’s plans for the new season, so that cuts the cost down a little, but the problem is his wages,” he explained.

“In order to meet those demands we’d have to pay next to nothing for the player himself. It all depends on Barcelona.

“I can say that Ronaldinho rejected an offer from Manchester City, who were proposing twice as much as Milan.

“[As for Adebayor] Arsene Wenger booked an appointment, but there is no point me going to Nice when he has already said he wants £32m. These are impossible figures,” Galliani concluded.

Roberto Rossi

Milan Ready To Take Back Sheva

Shevchenko had seven glorious years with Milan, until he moved to Chelsea for €45m in 2006. However he has had two miserable seasons in West London, and is desperate to move back to Italy. The 32-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Sampdoria, however the Corriere says that he only has eyes for Milan, and is still very attached to the club, even attending Paolo Maldini’s 40th birthday party in Miami on June 26. At present the Milan door is still closed for Sheva because Chelsea would prefer to sell the striker, rather than release him on loan, and the Rossoneri would refuse to pay the €6.5m that the Blues are asking for. A lot will depend on how new Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari uses Sheva in the first weeks of the season. If the Ukrainian is used sparsely, he may demand a loan move to Milan before the end of the transfer widow on August 31. The Diavoli have made it known that they are ready to take Sheva on loan, and indeed it is not impossible that this could even take place next January. Roberto Rossi

Chelsea Make Huge Offer For Kaka

European and World Footballer of the Year Kaka has consistently been the subject of multi-million pound bids from Chelsea and Real Madrid over the past few years, however Milan have repeatedly stated that the Brazilian is not for sale.

Galliani has revealed that the Rossoneri have received yet another huge offer for their star player.

"For Kaka, a really big offer has arrived from Chelsea," said Galliani to La Stampa, before also revealing that their had been a number of offers for midfield creator Andrea Pirlo.

"For Pirlo, there have been many requests. As for him, neither Pirlo nor his agent have come in to my office asking for an improvement in his salary."

The 29-year-old’s agent was quoted in the press as saying that his client deserved to be paid the same amount of money as Kaka.

The Brazilian currently earns a reported €7.5m a year, while the Italian, despite being a virtual irreplaceable figure at the club, picks up almost half of this, earning €4m.

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