Wenger: Kaka needs more playing time

Posted Thursday, October 06, 2011 by ESPN

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes Real Madrid midfielder Kaka is back to his best, but needs to seek more playing time in the star-studded squad.

The 29-year-old joined the Bernabeu outfit in 2009, but has failed to make an impact after an unfortunate string of injuries kept him from an extended run in the team.

Kaka recently recovered from his latest injury and impressed in the 3-0 win over Ajax in the Champions League, scoring a goal and setting up two more.

However, the Brazilian's place in Los Blancos is far from cemented. He faces competition from Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso, Hamit Altintop, Mesut Ozil and Nuri Sahin, who has also recently recovered from injury, for a spot in the midfield.
Wenger voiced his opinion in Sport about the former Milan star's predicament.

He said: "Kaka is doing really well again. However, I do believe that he's not at the level he was at with Milan just yet. The next step for him is to get a lot of playing time again,

"The problem for Kaka is that he plays in the same team as Ozil, who is young and very strong. It will not be easy for Kaka to become an undisputed first-team player again.

"Everyone said that he was finished a while ago. He should be judged by his recent performances though. It's not easy for a player like him to find his best form again after a lengthy absence. He needs some time to get back on top."

Kaka has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid several times, but has insisted that he is staying at the club.