Orlando City

Kaká won't return to Orlando City Soccer Club after season

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando City Soccer Club majority owner Flavio Augusto da Silva, CEO Alex Leitão and team captain Ricardo Kaká held a news conference Wednesday afternoon at Orlando City Stadium.

Kaká told Channel 9 sports anchor Christian Bruey that he won't return to the Orlando City Soccer Club after the end of the MLS season.

"His three-year contract with Orlando City expires at the end of this year," Bruey said. "The club has offered him a new one-year deal to return in 2018."

Kaká said he thought it over with his family in Brazil and made the decision to not re-sign with Orlando, but will continue to play, most likely in Brazil.

"I think I need for my life and my career a new challenge and a new motivation. That's what is the most important thing and what I based my decision," Kaká

In his three years with Orlando City, Kaká scored 24 goals, including Orlando City's first goal in the MLS.

"I love this club and I love these guys, but as a soccer player, I will not be a part of this club for the next season. Maybe I could come back as an ambassador or general manager or as a coach," Kaká said.

The soccer star will play his final home match with the Lions Sunday against the Columbus Crew Soccer Club.

Watch that match live on WRDQ TV 27.