The Brazil playmaker joined Madrid from AC Milan in 2009 but after a promising first season at the Bernabeu was forced to undergo surgery on a long-standing knee injury following the 2010 World Cup.

He returned in January but struggled for fitness over the closing months of the season.

The 29-year-old told Spanish newspaper AS: "On a personal level, it was the most difficult season of my career.

"For the team it was okay, we won the Copa del Rey against Barcelona, reached the semi-finals of the Champions League and came second in the league.

"But that is not enough for a club such as Madrid.

"For me personally it was very difficult.

"I had the injury, returned in January, but in March stopped again. I managed to play the last two months but it was hard."

Although speculation has linked him with a move back to Italy, Kaka is determined to make an impact next year and repay the faith shown in him by coach Jose Mourinho.

"When you have an operation, the worst bit is the psychological part," he added.

"And I can say Mourinho and his coaching staff did a lot in that regard.

"It has been said Mourinho does not want me in Madrid but that is not true. He has always been very honest with me and consistent in his decisions about me and the team in general.

"My desire is to remain at Real Madrid.

"I knew there would be speculation because since arriving in Madrid I have been linked with 10 teams. But Mourinho wants me to continue and I will follow."