Cannavaro Opens Up on Italy Job Snub and World Cup Ambitions

Fabio Cannavaro, the 2006 World Cup winner, has given an exclusive interview to Tuttosport, shedding light on his recent coaching endeavors and the opportunities that slipped through his fingers. The Italian football legend has been appointed as the head coach of Uzbekistan, a role that guarantees him a spot in the World Cup, unlike his former national team colleague Gennaro Gattuso, who is guiding Italy into the World Cup play-offs in March.

Close Call with Italy Job

Cannavaro revealed that he had conversations with Italy national team officials, including Gianluigi Buffon, but never truly felt like a genuine candidate for the job. “I’ll be honest. I spoke with Buffon, but I wasn’t really in contention,” Cannavaro said. “I had a great past as a footballer, but maybe they saw me as a poster boy more than anything. I won’t give up on coaching, I will continue.”

Missed Opportunity with Poland

Cannavaro also shared that he had an opportunity to become the head coach of Poland shortly after the Italy post came up, but ultimately turned it down. “Yes, I was one step away and then said no. I didn’t feel like it, and that was a mistake, the biggest since I came back from China. I might have said no because I was waiting for Italy. That was my idea, but nothing came of it and then I got tired of waiting.”

Uzbekistan and World Cup Ambitions

Despite missing out on the Italy job, Cannavaro is now focused on leading Uzbekistan into the World Cup. The team will face Colombia, Portugal, and possibly DR Congo in the group stage. When asked about the challenges ahead, Cannavaro replied, “No, I wouldn’t say so, but we will be prepared when we get to those games. We’ll play against Colombia first, my friend Asprilla has already called and given me some suggestions.”

Meeting the Players

Cannavaro also spoke about his first meeting with the Uzbekistan players, saying, “They were all in awe when they first met me. I understood them and put them at ease to break the ice. I know why they qualified. They’re a tough national side and the Uzbeks are determined people.”

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