Ricardo Kaka birthday: Quoting Pele, Beckham and others, here is why everyone loves the iconic Ballon d'Or winner!

“A really nice guy… in a profession of a-holes,” planetfootball quotes a sports journalist once saying about former AC Milan superstar Kaka. The gifted Brazilian, who beat Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi to win the Ballon d'Or in 2007, is one among the most loved footballers of this generation. From former teammates to rivals, this is how some of the legends like to remember the playmaker.

“A really nice guy… in a profession of a-holes,” planetfootball quotes a sports journalist once saying about former AC Milan superstar Kaka. The gifted Brazilian, who beat Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi to win the Ballon d'Or in 2007, is one among the mo 

“He helps out in midfield and he is also a great example off the pitch. He is the complete player.” (Football legend Pele)

“Zidane was the best. Kaka is the second best player I’ve coached and definitely the most intelligent.” (Veteran coach Ancelotti)

Andre Pirlo and Kaka were teammates at AC Milan.

England great Frank Lampard loved to watch Kaka play and reates him among the finest to ever play the game.

'My friend, it was a great joy to play and win games alongside a great champion like you. I am sure that life will give you a lot more joy ahead. Thank You Kaka!' (Italian icon Paulo Maldini's message when Kaka announced retirement)

'In the first game he introduced himself with a sombrero and there began his splendid career at Milan. He looked like a robot. He was a sniper.' (Italy World Cup winner ennaro Gattuso)

David Beckham and Kaka played together at AC Milan!

'He is the complete modern player' (Brazil great ROberto Carlos' response to Kaka winning the Ballon d'Or)