Kaká sets aside Rossoneri ties

Real Madrid CF's Kaká admits he is still a "Milan fan" but insists he will set aside any affections for his former side when the Rossoneri visit the Spanish capital on Matchday 3.

Consummate professional
The Brazilian swapped AC Milan for the Santiago Bernabéu this summer and was handed a swift reunion with his employers of six years in August when they were drawn alongside Los Merengues in UEFA Champions League Group C. "This is the first time I will play against a former team," said the Brazilian, who began his career at São Paulo FC. "It's new for me but I'm a professional player and now I play for Real Madrid."

Downturn in fortunes
Manuel Pellegrini's side lead the section with maximum points from their opening two fixtures while Milan, eighth in Serie A, are third after a surprise 1-0 loss to FC Zürich on Matchday 2. Kaká has vowed to adhere to convention by not celebrating should he score against his old club but will "give the maximum" for Madrid. "Milan have always been a strong team in Italy and Europe but it has changed in the last two years," added the 27-year-old.

Madrid affection
Leonardo's side beat AS Roma 2-1 on Sunday to end a four-game winless streak and Kaká concedes they are yet to hit their straps under his compatriot's stewardship. "They must improve a little bit and focus on returning Milan to what it was," he said of the seven-time European champions. "I would prefer not to face them this season but it's better to do it now than in the final. I'm a Real Madrid fan but also support Milan and Sao Paulo."

Pivotal absentees
Ronaldinho has come in for criticism in recent weeks, despite two goals in Milan's last two Serie A outings, but Kaká is keen to sing the praises of his international team-mate and fellow former winner of the FIFA World Player of the Year crown. "He is a unique player with the ball because he can put it where he wants, I would like to have this skill," he said. As the Rossoneri need no reminding, however, Kaká has a few skills of his own.