Power Ranking: Top 10 greatest players to play soccer in the US
By Kris Whelan
No.7- Kaka
Brazilian midfielder Kaka is the only person on this list who is still playing the game, and is the only exception to my statement that the best has come and gone. Such is his brilliance that his presence on this list was a requirement and not an embellishment. Once considered to have the potential to be the greatest of all time, Kaka’s star faded slightly but not to an extent that you couldn’t appreciate his genius. He might not have continued his outrageous form but for the time he spent at the top he will be remembered as a great, and a hero to Brazilians and fans of AC Milan.
He moved from Sau Paulo to AC Milan in 2003, and his first stint in Italy was definitely the most successful years of his career. Despite the fact he only won the Italian Serie A once, his class during that time will live in the history books forever. His individual awards flooded in, in addition to him guiding Milan to a UEFA Champions League triumph in 2007. During this period of his career he won the Ballon d’Or once, Footballer of the Year in Italy twice and was named in Europe’s best XI three occasions. The Brazilian was pivotal in the Champions League success as he finished out the tournament as top scorer.
"“For two, maybe three seasons [at Milan] he was the best player in the world, there was nothing he couldn’t do.” – Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho"
Though the high point of his club career was at Milan, he still went on to win the La Liga title with Real Madrid in 2012. In addition to a magnificent club career, the midfielder was also part of the Brazil squad that won the World Cup in 2002.
"“He’s the complete player.” – Brazil Legend Pele"
Though his career is only starting in the MLS, there is no arguing the pure talent and genius that the Brazilian had throughout his career. Even at the age of 32, he still has a lot to offer soccer in the US.
Next: No.6- Bobby Moore