Kaka

France take on Croatia in the World Cup final looking to win the competition for the first time since 1998. Considering that it is almost two decades since this event occurred, France are feeling extremely confident that it is once again their time to win the title. Croatia, though, enter into the final as the underdogs. They have also suffered a defeat against France back in 1998 semifinals and that could be a repeat of the same. Croatia have never been able to overcome France in any meeting.

However, the likes of Mario Mandzukic and Ivan Perisic have displayed a huge amount of attacking potential for Croatia. The presence of midfielders like Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic makes it possible for the team to create chances for such forwards in abundance. However, France have been much more about taking one or two chances that come their way. The brilliance of Kylian Mbappe has also been a crucial factor in helping the French national team reach the finals. Manager Didier Deschamps, though, will demand a lot more from his other players like Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud if France are to win the title. One of the major problems for Croatia is the involvement in the extra time over the last three matches. This could clean them of valuable energy when it comes to this game. France are likely to take advantage of this fact and it is better to back a France title victory at 4/9.

Brazil head coach Tite has confirmed that Gabriel Jesus remains the first-choice striker to lead the line for the Selecao at the World Cup despite the impressive form of Roberto Firmino this term. The Liverpool marksman has enjoyed the best spell of his professional career with 26 goals and 14 assists in all competitions but he still expected to play second fiddle to Jesus, who plys his trade for Manchester City.

Speaking in a press conference, Tite said: “Yes, it’s true what you said [that Firmino has had the more impressive campaign than Gabriel]. But [Jesus] came back [from injury] and is in great form. Initially, it’s Gabriel who will start.” Meanwhile, in an interview with ESPN Brazil, City boss Guardiola was asked about his opinion on the situation to which he said: “Tite has a problem. Not me. It’s his problem. But it’s a debate. An infinite discussion. Brazil has two incredible attackers, two fantastic strikers. Gabriel has an energy, a contagious desire. I believe this calms with age. Firmino is older but has been out of Brazil for some time.”

Former Brazil international Kaka has admitted that he had a difficult relationship with Jose Mourinho during his unsuccessful playing career with Real Madrid. The attacker made a big-money switch to Los Blancos from AC Milan in the summer of 2009 but his career slumped thereafter with injuries hampering his progress.

Manchester United have perhaps looked enviously at their closest rivals and realised that they also need to add some Brazilian flair to their ranks. Manchester City have Gabriel Jesus and Fernandinho, while Liverpool have Roberto Firmino and recently captured Fabinho. Reports suggest that Jose Mourinho may be about to swoop for another hot talent from the South American nation in Douglas Costa.

According to the Metro, the United boss is about to offer Bayern Munich £79 million in an effort to sign their versatile winger. The Brazilian would significantly bolster Mourinho’s attacking options and help the Red Devils muster a more convincing title challenge in the 2018-19 Premier League campaign.

Brazilian legend Kaka paid a visit to the facilities of Stadium St Petersburg as part of Chinese TV’s build of the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The hosts are busy with the final touches for the global tournament starting in June, and Kaka spoke about his experience during a visit to the stadium owned by Zenit St Petersburg, he said: “It's the first time I've been to Stadium St Petersburg and it's my first time in this city.

“I can see that everything is ready for the World Cup and it's important that this arena will remain a team's stadium after the tournament. I can't say that I know a lot about Zenit, but I know a bit because my friend Hulk played here. In the summer, I plan to come here again to watch a few matches.”

Olympic Athlete legend Usain Bolt believes Brazil are likely to struggle at this summer’s World Cup unless they can get Neymar back onto the pitch. The 31-year-old was offered an elusive chance to training on the pitch with Borussia Dortmund this week, and shortly after his session he discussed his favourites for the global tournament in Russia.

Speaking with Goal.com, Bolt highlighted that he won’t miss the opportunity of watching a few games in Russia. He added that he is a huge fan of Argentina, whom he would like to lift the World Cup, though Germany and Brazil could provide competition. Brazil were ousted at the semi-final stage of the tournament four years ago, and Bolt feels their chances lie on Neymar’s return to full fitness.

Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred is hoping to put in consistent performances through the remainder of the campaignin order to make the cut for the Brazilian World Cup squad. The 24-year-old had initially been overseen by his nation due to a failed doping test in 2015, but he is pleased to have made a comeback after a lengthy ban.

In a report covered by Goal.com, the central midfielder is delighted with his return under Tite in November 2017, and he is now hoping to maintain his showing in order to represent Brazil in Russia, he said:"I was delighted to be called back into the Brazil squad. I think it was one of the most exciting moments of my life, just because of everything I had been through and it feeling like a, had been given a second chance.It was a sign that I was back and had recovered my form on the pitch. It was pleasing to see that being recognised by Tite and his staff. To be able to come back for the final qualifiers was really great. The World Cup squad is not yet final and I will do everything in my power to make it to Russia.”

Liverpool are reportedly prepared to commit Roberto Firmino to a life-time contract as they are convinced that he is the right player to lead the Reds attack for the long-term. The 26-year-old has established himself as the first-choice striker at Anfield ahead of both Dominic Solanke and Daniel Sturridge, and his link-up play with the likes of Mohamed Salah has been crucial to the club's progress this term.

According to The Telegraph, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is keen to keep the vital cog of his side, and this includes the likes of Sadio Mane and Salah in addition to Firmino. The Merseyside outfit recently lost the services of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in British-record sale, and it now appears that they are determined to avoid a similar repeat with Klopp aiming to end their three-decade wait for the Premier League crown.

Brazilian superstar Kaka has picked up a potential candidate who could end Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi's dominance in the Ballon d'Or. The pair have shared the accolade over the past nine years, with the former favourite to claim his fifth Ballon d'Or in December.

Kaka, who was the last player to be crowned with the prestigious award prior to the Ronaldo and Messi dominance, feels Neymar has the potential to break the duo's reign in the future, he told AS: "It's incredible to win an individual award in a team sport, and also one where everybody wants to be able to say: 'I'm the best.

Brazil international Kaka was in tears after he played his final game for MLS side Orlando City on Sunday. The 35-year-old confirmed last week that he would not renew his contract beyond December, and he was caught up in the emotion following his side's 1-0 defeat to Columbus at the Orlando City Stadium.

Speaking after the game, he said: "It was hard to play sometimes. When I was on the field, a lot of things were on my mind and it was difficult to focus on the game. It was a really, really special game, and I wanted to finish with a win. Most of that was just to say thank you because a lot happened during these three seasons. One day, I don't know when but soon, I will retire, but I will still have these guys as friends in the future."