Many observers might wonder how an out-of-form, aging Kaka can still make the Brazilian national side, while Philippe Coutinho – who is one of the Premier League’s most in-form players – makes the cut.
It’s a good question, and the answer is probably ‘money’.
Those commercial backers will have been disappointed, therefore, to see the 33 year old Orlando City playmaker sit out training on Monday ahead of Tuesday night’s friendly against the USA.
It was reported that the player stayed in the hotel with the team’s physiotherapist after feeling a muscle strain. Brazilian Federation have said he will still be able to play in the game, but in a reality it’s a case of wait and see.
Dunga has backed Kaka to have big impact on the side during their first World Cup qualifying campaign since 2007-09.
“Kaká can help a lot inside and outside of the field”, he said during the pre-match press conference. “When I talk about his excellent athletic condition, people don’t realize we’re also paying attention to his technical abilities”.
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The game forms part of an exciting CONCACAF vs CONMEBOL double-header, with Mexico playing Argentina at the same time.