Manchester City came within a whisker of adding yet another Brazilian to their ranks this winter, but Kaka ended up snubbing Eastlands' vast riches to remain with AC Milan.

And Elano has confessed that he was more than a little disappointed that his fellow Selecao star refused to join the Sky Blues revolution.

The 27-year-old said in The Daily Star, Yes, I was sad he didnt come. To have played next to him at City would have made a difference because he brings a lot of positive things.

Hes a world-class player and very well-regarded. I would have loved him to play for City. But it was his choice whether to come or not.

Elano and Kaka played alongside one another this week when Brazil dealt Italy, the World Cup holders, a 2-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium in London.

The former struck the South Americans' opener, displaying the sort of touch on the international stage that he would love to be given the chance to replicate at club level.

The ex-Shakhtar Donetsk has found first-team opportunities scarce under Mark Hughes, and the last few months have seen him linked extensively with a move away from England.

But Elano said, Its all OK. I dont want to cause a problem. I only feel upset because I feel Im capable of starting every game. I am working hard.