|
 |
| Kaka has one of these already [AFP] |
Kaka ushered in Real Madrid's latest 'galactico' era as the Spanish club gave the Brazil player a rock star welcome with an unveiling in front of more than 50,000 fans.
After president Florentino Perez introduced Kaka for the first time since his $92million acquisition from AC Milan, the 27-year-old playmaker shook his head in delight as fans chanted his name at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"Today is a very special day for me. I'm very happy about this new step in my career at Real Madrid," said Kaka, who will wear the No.8 shirt.
"Viva Madrid!"
Kaka – who passed his medical earlier on Tuesday – and Cristiano Ronaldo are Perez's major summer signings as he bids to make up for a season without silverware.
No words
"There are no words for today, it's an unforgettable day," Kaka said on Tuesday.
"All of this is a great honour and responsibility, and not a negative responsibility but a positive one. I hope we can win titles and many victories."
Kaka took the stage in front of a backdrop featuring photos of iconic Madrid players Alfredo di Stefano, Raul Gonzalez, Juanito and Zinedine Zidane.
Accompanied by a young fan donning the first Kaka jersey, he subsequently did a tour of one half of the 80,000-capcity stadium to sign autographs and salute to the pumped-up masses.
Perez has splashed out $333million this summer – including Valencia defender Raul Albiol – in a bid to turn the page on a season that was marred by former president Ramon Calderon's resignation over a vote-rigging scandal.
Valencia to Manchester
In England, Ronaldo's replacement at Manchester United was hailed with slightly less fuss at Old Trafford.
 |
| Valencia has gone up in the world [GALLO/GETTY] |
Ecuadorian winger Antonio Valencia signed from Wigan Athletic on a four-year contract for a fee thought to be around $20million.
"Playing in front of 76,000 fans alongside players like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs will be an amazing experience. I can't wait to get started," 23-year-old Valencia, who has played 34 times for his country, said on United's website.
Valencia became United manager Alex Ferguson's first signing since the end of last season.
"Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now. I am sure his pace and ability will make a significant contribution to the team," Ferguson said.
The South American notched up 89 appearances, scoring seven times, after joining Wigan from Spanish club Villarreal in 2006.
|