Uzbekistan national team head coach Fabio Cannavaro answered questions regarding why Azizbek Turgunboyev was excluded from the World Cup squad. The Italian expert emphasized that this decision was not based on personal issues, but on the player's current form and performance on the pitch.
At the press conference, Cannavaro was asked if Turgunboyev's omission was due to his physical condition or other reasons. The coach revealed that he had spoken with the player personally following his injury.
"I spoke with Azizbek individually after his injury. I told him then that Turgunboyev needs to work even harder after returning from his injury," said Cannavaro.
According to the expert, Turgunboyev has returned to the pitch and helped his team in some matches. However, his movements on the field, physical fitness, and overall condition failed to convince the coaching staff.
"He returned to the pitch and helped his team in some games, but his actions on the field and his overall demeanor did not convince me enough," the Italian coach added.
At the same time, Cannavaro did not hide his high regard for Azizbek Turgunboyev’s level and his contributions to the national team. He specifically acknowledged the player's past performances in important matches, his contribution to the national team, and his experience.
"I know Azizbek Turgunboyev very well; his level, his previous work for the national team, and his services in important matches must be acknowledged," said Cannavaro.
However, in the coach's opinion, decisions in football are made based on current form, preparation, and competition. For a major tournament like the World Cup, the most reliable, best-prepared players who meet the coach's requirements are selected.
Cannavaro emphasized that he called up players who convinced him the most. He also openly stated that there are no personal issues between him and Turgunboyev.
"Unfortunately, this is football. Such situations happen in football. Also, I called up the players who convinced me the most. Furthermore, there are no personal problems between us," the expert commented.
It is clear from this response that Cannavaro made the decision not based on emotions, but on the team's current needs and the players' level of preparation. For Turgunboyev, this is not the end, but rather a new challenge to work harder and return to the national team.
Competition is fierce ahead of the World Cup. At such times, every player must prove themselves not just by their name, but by their current form. Azizbek Turgunboyev has the experience and the level; now he only needs to return to his previous reliable form.
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