From World Champion with Italy to managing Uzbekistan: Cannavaro's return to a World Cup 20 years later

Fabio Cannavaro, the legendary captain who led Italy to World Cup glory in 2006, is embarking on a new chapter on football's biggest stage. At 52, the former defender is now at the helm of Uzbekistan, guiding the Central Asian nation through its historic debut in the World Cup.

Cannavaro's journey to this point is remarkable, especially when contrasted with his home country's recent fortunes. While Italy has missed the last three World Cups, Cannavaro is coaching a team making its first-ever appearance. He took over the Uzbekistani national team in October 2025, steering them through the final stages of Asian qualifiers.

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I try to help alleviate the pressure. The stage is tough, I try to explain to them that they should enjoy it because it's the first time and we have nothing to lose. But that doesn't mean we will just enjoy the moment; we know we have to fight.

His coaching career has seen him manage clubs like Guangzhou, Al-Nassr, and Tianjin Tianhai, as well as the Chinese national team. Before Uzbekistan, he also had stints with Benevento, Udinese, and Dinamo Zagreb. His playing career was stellar, marked by success with Napoli, Parma, Inter Milan, Juventus, and Real Madrid, culminating in the 2006 World Cup triumph and a Ballon d'Or award.

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When you enter this stadium, you get goosebumps.

Ahead of Uzbekistan's match against Colombia at the iconic Estadio Azteca, Cannavaro shared his thoughts. "I try to help alleviate the pressure," he said. "The stage is tough, I try to explain to them that they should enjoy it because it's the first time and we have nothing to lose. But that doesn't mean we will just enjoy the moment; we know we have to fight."

He also conveyed his awe for the historic stadium, stating, "When you enter this stadium, you get goosebumps." Cannavaro aims to impart his vast experience to his players, reminding them of the lifelong significance of their World Cup debut.

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I told them how my first day at a World Cup was, because this is something they will remember their whole lives.