Fabio Cannavaro gave a comprehensive interview to Prime Video Sport regarding the Uzbekistan national team, sharing his thoughts on the squad and its future plans.
The coach stated that he accepted the offer from Uzbekistan without hesitation. He emphasized that financial matters or other conditions were not the priority in this decision; the main factor was football and the challenge.
"How did you receive the offer from Uzbekistan?"
"I accepted the offer immediately without thinking long. The decision was made easily, without any hesitation."
"What was the main factor in your decision?"
"No financial or other conditions were primary. For me, football and a new challenge came first."
Fabio Cannavaro described this choice as a "gift of fate," stating that for someone who participated in the World Cup as a player, reaching the tournament as a coach is a great opportunity.
"What does returning to the World Cup mean to you?"
"It feels like a great gift to me. I previously participated as a player, and now returning as a coach is a special feeling."
According to him, the current focus is on preparing the players mentally and tactically for the World Cup, as it will be the first tournament for many players, and the pressure will be very high.
Cannavaro gave a realistic assessment of the team, describing them not as a collective of superstars, but as a team relying on hard work and discipline. At the same time, he noted that their fighting spirit could pose difficulties for any opponent.
"How do you evaluate your team?"
"This team is not a collection of stars. However, they are hardworking, diligent, and have a character that does not give up."
In his opinion, the team's main goal is to never surrender and give maximum effort in every game. Even a small result could be perceived as a great achievement.
"What do you expect from your players?"
"I want to bring them to a state where they are not afraid of the pressure. They should enter the field with the spirit that 'we have nothing to lose'."
"What is the plan regarding results?"
"We are not big names, but we are a fighting team. Even a single point could be valuable for us."
"What is the main strength of the team?"
"Our main strengths are discipline and unity. We will fight until the end against every opponent."
The coach also noted that they would participate in the Asian Cup after the World Cup, expressing his expectation for further growth of the team during this process.
"What is expected after the World Cup?"
"Another major tournament awaits us. The team will be ready to show its strength in the continental championship as well."
In short, Cannavaro views the Uzbekistan national team not as a group of big stars, but as a collective distinguished by strong character and hard work—which itself could be their greatest weapon.
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