The news finally broke this Monday: Fabio Cannavaro, a true legend of the game, has officially taken the reins of Uzbekistan’s national football team. This is a big moment for a nation heading to the World Cup next year. Football fans have been talking about this for a while, and now it’s confirmed.
Cannavaro, now 52, brings serious winning experience to the role. He won the prestigious Ballon d’Or award in 2006. That same year, he led Italy to a World Cup victory, beating France in the final. Now, he’s ready for a different challenge, guiding a team to the world’s biggest stage as a coach.
He won’t be doing it alone, though. The Uzbekistan Football Association shared the news on social media. They also announced his chosen backroom staff. Eugenio Albarella joins as his assistant coach. Francesco Troise will handle the team’s fitness. Antonio Chimenti will train the goalkeepers.
The team Cannavaro will lead has a massive task ahead. They are gearing up for the 2026 World Cup. This huge tournament will be hosted across three countries: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Fans can mark their calendars for the opening game on June 11. The championship final will light up the stage on July 19.