Cafu believes Jose is destined to win Mour trophies

Cafu believes it is only a matter of time before Jose Mourinho gets back on the trophy trail with Roma. 

Despite securing silverware at Manchester United, Mourinho's time at Old Trafford was not hailed as a resounding success and a troubled spell at Tottenham left many questioning whether he still has what it takes at the highest level. 

Now in charge of the Giallorossi, it has been a mixed season for the 59-year-old tactician, who was known as the Special One during his trophy-laden first spell at Chelsea. 

In the midst of an inconsistent Serie A campaign, Mourinho has guided Roma to the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League. 

And ex-Brazil right-back Cafu, who will take part in Soccer Aid for UNICEF on June 12, feels his former side still have a top operator on their hands.

The 2002 World Cup winner said: "There is no such a thing as 'rebuilding his reputation' for a coach of the status of Mourinho. He is a great coach. 

"But he will have to conquer Roma fans. Believe me, it is not an easy task — I myself know it very well. 

"If they give him time to work, I have no doubt he and the team will bring titles to Rome."

While Cafu, 51, did not grace the Premier League during his playing days, England's top flight has been home to a rich tapestry of Selecao stars over the years. 

And the 142-cap international has been keeping a close eye on one fellow countryman in particular.

Cafu added: "I don’t like mentioning names, you know. I don’t want to forget someone or to be unfair. But there are some very good players like Fabinho, [Roberto] Firmino, Allison, Gabriel Jesus.

"I’m a big fan of Jesus. I see a lot of potential in him. [I am a] big fan."

The January transfer window also saw another Brazilian return to the Premier League as former Liverpool man Philippe Coutinho sealed a loan move to Aston Villa from Barcelona.

Four years after swapping Merseyside for Catalonia, the mercurial 29-year-old midfielder has shown glimpses of the quality that saw him become one of the division's finest talents.

Cafu said: "I’m also a big fan of Coutinho, for all his football skills and his technique. After Neymar, he was always considered the most talented and promising Brazilian player of their generation. 

"Not only Brazilian fans but all football fans hope to see his amazing performances, as he produced for Liverpool, which led to a big transfer fee with Barcelona.

"I am a fan of great players and Coutinho fits my list. I wish him an amazing rest of the season at Aston Villa. He deserves it."

Cafu will line up for Arsene Wenger's World XI at the London Stadium, where he will play alongside the likes of captain Usain Bolt, Patrice Evra and Robbie Keane.

Soccer Aid opponents England will be skippered by singer Liam Payne and feature ex-professionals Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher and Joe Cole, while Harry Redknapp will be in the dugout. 

It will be the 11th edition of the event, which pits ex-professionals, singers, actors and more against each other in a winner-takes-all match, with all proceeds going to children’s aid charity UNICEF.

Ahead of his second Soccer Aid appearance, Cafu said: "I might confess playing football is what I love the most. Every time I play is exciting. 

"But the world has faced many challenges in the last years. Soccer Aid for UNICEF has the potential of helping so many people around the world.  

"It is always special to be part of it. Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2021 raised a record-breaking £13million and we’re looking to top this for the 2022 match. That is our goal."

Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2022 takes place on June 12 at the London Stadium. A family of four can attend the game for just £60 — buy your tickets at socceraid.org.uk/tickets