This morning, the Uzbekistan national team embarked on one of the most important journeys in its history. Led by Fabio Cannavaro, the team flew from Tashkent to New York. Now, all focus is on the World Cup, which will take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
A day before the trip, Uzbekistan national team head coach Fabio Cannavaro gave an exclusive interview to “Markaziy Sektor”. In a conversation with Davron Fayziyev, the Italian specialist discussed his arrival at the team, squad selection, the status of injured players, his meeting with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and opponents at the World Cup.
Managing the Uzbekistan national team is no simple task for Cannavaro. He is preparing the first team in our football history to participate in a World Cup. This means great responsibility, immense pressure, and at the same time, a huge opportunity.
During the conversation, a question was also asked about Abdukodir Khusanov. The journalist jokingly suggested that if Khusanov stays by Cannavaro's side, he could win the Ballon d'Or in the future. In response, the Italian coach praised the Uzbek defender highly.
“We lost a truly magnificent defender. He surprised me the moment I arrived,” said Cannavaro.
These words show the impression Khusanov has made on the coach. The Manchester City defender has become one of the biggest names in Uzbek football today. His speed, physical conditioning, and composure in big games are of vital importance to the national team.
Cannavaro also touched upon the issue of tempo in the interview. He attributed the lack of pace in some games to refereeing, frequent whistle-blowing, and VAR processes. In the coach's opinion, pauses in the game affect the players' rhythm.
Speaking about injured players, he emphasized that he is worried not only about Jaloliddin Masharipov but also about the condition of other players. Cannavaro did not hide that he has always been concerned about players getting injured.
An interesting question was asked about the playing style at the World Cup. Will Uzbekistan adapt to the opponents' game or play on the counter-attack? Cannavaro gave a general but meaningful answer.
“The World Cup is a place where you can face the best players in the world,” he said.
From this answer, it is clear that the Italian specialist understands the need to approach each opponent individually at the World Cup. Desire alone is not enough at the World Cup: discipline, tactics, physical preparation, and psychological stability are equally important.
In the interview, Cannavaro also expressed his readiness for openness. When the journalist said, “It is almost certain you won't answer this question, but I have to ask,” the coach replied, “I can answer any question, there is no problem with that.” This showed his openness and calm demeanor in dealing with the press.
The meeting with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was also one of the important psychological events for the team. The head of state meeting with the national team members and wishing them success undoubtedly gave the players great confidence and a sense of responsibility.
Now, the Uzbekistan national team faces a historic task. The team led by Fabio Cannavaro must not only participate in the World Cup but also show the whole world how far Uzbek football has progressed.
In short, in his interview before the World Cup, Fabio Cannavaro shared important thoughts on the squad, injuries, Khusanov, opponents, and team preparation. The national team has left for New York; now it is time to perform on the pitch. For Uzbekistan, this is not just a tournament — it is a chance to make history.
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
