Kaká Previews Real Madrid's Showdown Against Manchester United

Real Madrid's Brazilian midfielder Ricardo Izecson Dos Santos Leite, known globally as Kaka, answered a few questions ahead of Tuesday's Champions League match against Manchester United in Old Trafford. The following is my translation from the original Spanish interview featured here:

Asked what aspect of Manchester United strikes him the most, Ricky said:

I think they have a very strong team. They're a team with lots of tradition in Europe that always goes far in the competitions they participate in, not to mention they have great individual players like Rooney and Van Persie.

Real's website also asked the playmaker how the Madrid locker room felt following Real Madrid's 1-1 draw in the first leg of the UCL tie:

We felt like we could've won the game, but with that feeling also came a sense of confidence that we can win in England.

With regards to playing in Old Trafford, Kaka had this to say:

The match itself is very special. Given the fans, the stadium, the history that Manchester has--this all makes for a special match and the players who take part in the game are of course special.

Kaka also reflected on his memorable match against Manchester United in 2007 while defending the colors of AC Milan and shared his favorite Champions League moment:

The best moment was when I won the Champions League against Liverpool with AC Milan in 2007. That's the most important moment I've lived in the Champions League. And the most important goal I've scored in the competition was the second against Man United at Old Trafford in 2007. For me, it was an incredible goal.

Ricky was also asked what makes Mourinho one of the best managers in football:

He has many positive qualities, but I think his desire to seek victory and always win is something that makes Mourinho special.

Asked what he thinks he can lend to the game, Madrid's #8 said:

I think the opportunity to speed up the game, play counter-attacks, and now more than ever my experience. As a 30 year old I can offer lots of things.

Finally, Kaka explained what he does to motivate himself ahead of important matches and how he spends his time outside of football:

I like to motivate myself with things related to faith. These are things that motivate me and allow me to feel that the best is in store for us. When I'm not on the pitch I like to spend time with my family and play with my kids.

We wish Kaka and most importantly Real Madrid all the best in their Tuesday match against the Red Devils.

Hala Madrid!