Former Brazil & AC Milan Defender Questions Impact Of Champions League Playoffs On Inter Milan Scudetto Hopes | OneFootball

Former Brazil and AC Milan defender Cafu believes the Scudetto race remains wide open and has warned that Inter Milan’s Champions League commitments could play a decisive role.

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, on the day of the Roma–Milan clash at the Stadio Olimpico, Cafu described the fixture as a genuine title showdown.

“Without doubt, yes,” he said. “Inter are strong, but Roma and Milan are both in the top four and have to aim high. That includes the Scudetto.”

Cafu Claims Inter UCL Push Could Boost Roma & Milan Scudetto Chances

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 09: Ange-Yoan Bonny of Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Cafu then turned his attention to Inter’s situation in Europe and the possible knock-on effect in Serie A.

With continental competitions set to resume, the Brazilian suggested the calendar could work against Inter Milan if they are forced into the Champions League playoff round.

“If Inter go into the Champions League playoffs and Roma qualify directly for the Europa League last 16, the Nerazzurri could slow down,” Cafu explained.

“That’s why I wouldn’t rule anyone out.”

The former full-back also backed AS Roma as genuine contenders following their change on the bench.

Asked about Roma’s chances under Gian Piero Gasperini after Claudio Ranieri, Cafu was clear. “Why not? This year more than ever they can fight for the title.”

Milan, too, remain part of the equation.

Cafu stressed that AC Milan have the quality and experience to stay in the hunt if results fall their way.

The message from one of Serie A’s most decorated former defenders is simple.

Inter may lead the way, but with Europe looming and rivals close behind, the Scudetto race is far from decided.