The Fabio Cannavaro era has begun for the Uzbekistan national team. Many didn't expect miracles from the Italian specialist's first training camp and games - this was natural. Because any update requires a certain amount of time. Currently, the national team is undergoing this kind of "reboot" - a renewal process.
However, this update is currently being implemented with cautious steps. The shadow of the Catanes era is still felt in the Cannavaro style.
Tactical direction: Italian order following Catanes
For Cannavaro, the initial debates were a stage of observation and analysis. He hasn't yet made major tactical changes, but rather continued Katanec's "concept": discipline in defense, control of the game, and striving for results.
Leading Kuwait 2-0, the team slowed down to maintain the lead - a sign of Italian pragmatism. In the match against Uruguay, the team, striving to maintain discipline, prioritized defense.
So, for now, Cannavaro has chosen a productive, cautious, and goal-scoring playing style. His team relies on realism, meaning "result" takes precedence over "beautiful football."
Content caution: no time for new names yet
The lineup at this training camp was almost the same as during Kapadze's time. Following the match against Kuwait, Turdimurodov, Rahmonaliyev, Abdumajidov, and Hojimirzayev were sent off; these players returned to their clubs. Experienced players - Eshmurodov, Norchayev, and Turg'unboyev - were brought in to replace them.
Consequently, the Italian manager made his decision based on the players' previous performances and statistics. He hadn't yet personally observed the new names in the local championship, so he expressed confidence in experienced players who are well-versed in the national team environment.
In short, Cannavaro is currently working with the "finished product." This is a safe route, but it will take time to unlock backup capabilities.
It's worth mentioning Kapadze's approach - he gave everyone a chance in the CAFA tournament and showed that there was no irreplaceable player. Cannavaro hasn't chosen this path yet. Perhaps they will watch the championship matches until FIFA in November and pay attention to new names.
Aziz Ganiev's Return
Aziz Ganiev is one of the most interesting tactical trials of Cannavaro's era. The midfielder, who has been playing consistently in the UAE championship, returned to the main squad after two years. But Cannavaro broke him not in the center, but on the wing.
This decision is controversial: Aziz's strength is controlling the game in the center, setting the tempo through passes. On the wing, however, he cannot fully demonstrate these qualities. Therefore, it seems the coach is still searching for his own scheme and conducting positional experiments.
Injuries and competitive environment: hardening phase
Injuries are both a test and an opportunity for the national team. After O'tkir Yusupov's injury, he was replaced by Abduvohid Ne'matov. Although the "Nasaf" goalkeeper is currently in a non-competitive environment, this could affect his growth.
Similarly, names like Vladimir Nazarov and Botirali Ergashev should be ready at any moment. There is a high probability that we will see Aliqulov and Husanov at the next training camp. Although Abdukadir missed two training camps, there is a high probability that he will get back.
At such a time, friendly matches serve as an opportunity for those on the sidelines to hone their skills and prove themselves. Using Kannavaro Kapadze's experience here will allow for increased competition within the team.
Conclusion: "Reloading" has started, but time is short
For Fabio Cannavaro, these training camps are just the beginning. He hasn't fully tested the team yet. But its main direction is clear: discipline, realism, and results. This is the philosophy characteristic of Italian football.
The Uzbekistan national team is currently on the verge of a "reboot." The foundation, defensive discipline, and team spirit inherited from Katanets are preserved. Now a new spirit, a new idea, and a new way of thinking must be added. There's little time until the World Cup. But if Cannavaro manages to find the balance between the result and renewal in this short time, our national team will strengthen not only tactically but also psychologically.
Author: Iskandarov Abdulaziz
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