The Uzbekistan Football Association confirmed on Monday that Italian Fabio Cannavaro has been appointed as head coach of the Uzbekistan national team. The World Cup newcomers will begin their preparations under the 52-year-old.

Regarded as one of Italy's most noted defenders, Cannavaro played in four World Cups and captained the Azzurri to victory in 2006. After retiring, he coached in China and briefly led the Chinese national soccer team. He has been a free agent since leaving Dinamo Zagreb in April.

Uzbekistan made history by securing a direct spot in the 2026 World Cup through the qualifiers, marking its first-ever appearance in the tournament.