Kaka given Brazil warning

Posted Friday, March 30, 2012 by ESPN

Real Madrid midfielder Kaka has been told by Brazil manager Mano Menezes that he has to produce good performances in the next season to seal his place for the World Cup.

Kaka had been left out of the latest squad announced by Menezes for the friendly against Boznia and Herzegovina. It came as a surprise for the midfielder who has long been part of the national team set-up although critics had explained the decision as the likely result of Kaka getting less game time with the Spanish giants.

Recently, however, Kaka has been impressive and he was pivotal in Real's quarter-final match against APOEL Nicosia. The midfielder made an impact from the bench as he set up a goal to break the deadlock and grabbed a goal for himself as well.

He had also assisted Cristiano Ronaldo in the match against Real Sociedad last week helping the Portuguese notch his 100th goal in La Liga.

"I think that Kaka can play a big role at the World Cup in 2014," Menezes told Arena SporTV.

"I think that in order for that to happen, the next season will be very important."

Menezes also wants Kaka to give a good showing at the upcoming Olympic Games where he will likely feature the Brazilian star alongside several other players vying for consideration for the tournament on home soil.

"2012-13 will say if he can play one more World Cup. And for this to happen, the pre-season will be crucial for him," added Menezes.

"And it happens that the Olympic Games take place exactly during pre-season in Europe.

"If I believe that he can be at the World Cup and that next season will be crucial, then I have to let him do what he needs to do."

Real visit Pamplona-based Osasuna on Saturday in their next La Liga fixture.