Cafu weighs in on Roma’s Scudetto push: ‘Improbable can always become probable’

Former Roma and Milan defender Cafu has weighed in on the Giallorossi’s early push for the Serie A title and the hope that Gian Piero Gasperini has brought to the Stadio Olimpico, suggesting that ‘improbable things can always become probable in football’. 

Roma sit alone at the top of the Serie A standings, two points clear of Milan after 12 matches of the 2025-26 season thanks to Sunday’s 3-1 win over Cremonese and Milan’s 1-0 win over Inter in the Derby della Madonnina. 

It has been 24 years since the Giallorossi last won the league title, and while there is still a long way to go in the 2025-26 campaign, confidence appears to be at an all-time high under Gasperini. 

Speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, former Roma full-back Cafu was asked if he is surprised by the form that his old side have shown under Gasperini so far this season. 

“No, because improbable things can always become probable in football,” he replied. “Predictions exist to be proven wrong. 

“Roma are often underestimated, and if you look at the numbers, especially in 2025, you can see the strength and continuity of this team. It’s also true that Serie A is a long season and there are plenty of slip-ups, but that applies to everyone.” 

Cafu was also asked who he thinks will be crowned Serie A champions this season. 

He replied: “I don’t know, it’s difficult to say now. It will definitely be a great battle and I don’t think it will be a two-horse race this time. The fight for the Scudetto will go to the end and will involve several teams. 

“I’d definitely be happy if Roma won it, especially for the fans, they deserve it. It’s rightfully theirs. I still get chills when I hear the anthem being sung.” 

Cafu says that Gasperini reminds him of his former Roma coach, Zdenek Zeman. 

“Gasperini has done a great job and in a very short space of time, picking up excellent results immediately. The team still has room to grow, though. I’m convinced that Gasp brings real added value. I’ve never coached, but for me, he’s Zeman 2.0. Someone who does a lot of work on the physical and psychological side.” 

Cafu was also asked about Roma’s tradition of strong Brazilian full-backs, and was asked whether Wesley could have a seat at the table with himself and Maicon. 

“Maybe he’s a surprise for you, but not for me,” he replied. 

“It’s true that Maicon already had some experience in Serie A (before joining Roma), I already knew a bit about it, but (Wesley) has always played in Brazil, different football to yours. 

“They were probably expecting a purely technical player at Roma, being a Brazilian. But he has so many other qualities like his speed and tactical discipline. Roma are lucky to have him, he’s proving to be valuable on the left as well, not just the right.”