Cafu offers to fill Brazil coaching role

Rio de Janeiro, July 25 (IANS) Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning captain Cafu has offered to fill a coaching role under new Selecao boss Dunga.

Cafu was an outspoken critic of the team during the World Cup and was barred from entering the dressing rooms after the hosts’ 1-7 semifinal defeat to Germany in Belo Horizonte, reports Xinhua.

“I am always willing to help the national team,” Cafu told Radio Brasil Thursday.

“If the opportunity comes, great. I will look at it. If it doesn’t, I will continue hoping that the team does well.”

Cafu said he held no grudge against Brazil’s football confederation president Jose Maria Marin, who reportedly ordered Cafu’s dressing-room snub.

“Now is the time to implement a long-term plan,” the former Roma and Milan defender said.

“European football has evolved a lot. It’s a good thing that Brazil now has to try to innovate too. It is nothing to be ashamed of.”

Dunga was appointed Brazil’s manager for a second time Tuesday.

The 1994 World Cup-winning captain replaced Luiz Felipe Scolari, who resigned after the team’s failure to reach the World Cup final as hosts and pre-tournament favourites.

Dunga named Andrey Lopes as his assistant and 1994 World Cup-winning teammate Taffarel as goalkeeping coach.

A second assistant role, to be initially filled by former Brazil midfielder Mauro Silva, will be rotated among former Selecao players.