Leonardo back with Milan

Title triumph
The one-year deal follows talks between the player and Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani at a benefit match for former Milan team-mate Zvonimir Boban on Monday. Leonardo, 33, spent nearly four seasons with Milan from 1997/98, and was a key member of the team that won the Serie A title in 1998/99, scoring 12 goals in 27 matches for the Rossoneri.

European experience
He then represented them in the UEFA Champions League the following year. Although Milan failed to make it past the first group stage, the Brazilian did score in the 2-1 home victory against Galatasaray SK in September 1999.

Injury problems
He ended his spell at the San Siro when his contract ran out at the end of the 2000/01 campaign and returned home to join São Paolo FC. But he made just a couple of appearances before switching to CR Flamengo, the club where he started his career in 1987. Leonardo has also played in Spain for Valencia CF, in Japan with Kashima Antlers and in France with Paris Saint-Germain FC.

World Cup player
Leonardo earned 56 caps for his country, scoring eight times, following his international debut in 1989. He was in the winning Brazil squad at the 1994 FIFA World Cup but was suspended after elbowing Tab Ramos in the 1-0 second-round win against the United States. He then featured in all seven games as Brazil finished runners-up at the 1998 World Cup.

'Feel at home'
"I know that I will have to work hard in order to find a place in this great team," Leonardo said. "However, here I feel at home and the Milan technical staff have promised that they will do everything they can to help me play as soon as possible.

Help for Rivaldo
Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti was delighted with his acquisition. "I'm really happy," he said. "He is a skilful player and Milan need as many talented players as possible. Now he need to start his physical preparation, but when he's ready he will join our group. I think that he can also help Rivaldo to adapt to his new life in Italy."

European wait 
Leonardo will not be able to play for Milan in this season's Champions League until Matchday Nine of the second group stage on 18/19 February, which is the earliest game for which he can be registered. Clubs who progress beyond the first group stage are able to register a maximum of three new players by 31 January and then use those players in all remaining matches in the competition.