Cannavaro Takes Unlikely Path as Uzbekistan Coach for 2026 World Cup

Fabio Cannavaro, the Italian defender who lifted the World Cup trophy in 2006, has embarked on an unexpected coaching journey with Uzbekistan's national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. After struggling to secure a sustained position at top European clubs, Cannavaro accepted the role with the Uzbekistan Football Association in October 2025, describing the opportunity as "priceless" after feeling discouraged by the lack of offers from elite clubs. Despite previous coaching stints in Saudi Arabia, China, and Italy—including brief tenures at Benevento, Udinese Calcio, and Dinamo Zagreb—none lasted longer than five months, leaving him caught in what he called a "vicious cycle."

Cannavaro now leads the Uzbek national team, known as the "White Wolves," in their World Cup debut. The squad is anchored by Abdukodir Chusanow, a defender for Manchester City and the only player in the squad earning a living in Europe's top five leagues. Most of Uzbekistan's other players are based domestically. While Cannavaro acknowledged that winning the tournament would be "more than unrealistic," he expressed confidence that his squad could deliver surprises against stronger opponents, characterizing Uzbek players as tough competitors.

The appointment marks a dramatic shift from Cannavaro's earlier expectations. After his playing career, he had anticipated a glamorous coaching trajectory befitting his World Cup-winning credentials and 2006 FIFA World Player of the Year status. Instead, top European clubs passed him over repeatedly. Now based in Tashkent with his family, Cannavaro views the Uzbekistan role as a strategic stepping stone. He has publicly stated his ambitions to return to Italy and potentially coach the Italian national team—goals he believes a successful World Cup campaign with the underdog nation could help advance.