Uzbekistan Hires Italy's Fabio Cannavaro For Debut World Cup Appearance

In partnership with GOAL.com

World Cup-winning captain and Ballon d'Or winner Fabio Cannavaro has taken charge of Uzbekistan, leading the Asian underdogs into uncharted territory ahead of their first-ever World Cup campaign in 2026. 

For a nation long on promise but short on global recognition, his arrival marks the beginning of an audacious new era built on ambition.

Uzbekistan have officially appointed Cannavaro as their head coach ahead of their first-ever World Cup finals appearance in 2026, marking a new chapter in the nation’s footballing story. Cannavaro, 52, steps in following the departure of Timur Kapadze, who guided the team to qualification after taking over midway through the campaign from Srecko Katanec, who resigned due to health reasons.

Uzbekistan’s qualification campaign was nothing short of exceptional - losing only once in 15 matches and securing 21 points from 10 games in the third round. Their consistency would have ensured qualification even if the World Cup had not expanded to 48 teams. For a nation that has long flirted with continental promise but fallen short on the global stage, Cannavaro’s arrival signals ambition and a move that blends experience and tactical rigor with Uzbekistan’s energetic and technical playing style.

Cannavaro’s appointment comes after a brief and turbulent spell with Dinamo Zagreb, where he managed just 14 matches before being dismissed in April 2025. Despite the short tenure, his return to management has been eagerly anticipated across Europe and Asia alike. A 2006 World Cup-winning captain and Ballon d’Or recipient, Cannavaro brings with him the mentality of an elite defender and leader. His coaching philosophy has evolved across diverse footballing landscapes,