UFA dismisses salary rumors as Cannavaro heads Uzbekistan national team

According to UFA Vice President Ravshan Ermatov, Cannavaro has signed a 2+3-year contract, reflecting the association’s long-term vision for collaboration. The main goal set before the new head coach is to prepare the national team for a strong performance at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Ermatov confirmed that Timur Kapadze, the former head coach of the national team, will remain on the coaching staff as assistant coach to ensure stability during the transition. However, Kapadze himself later clarified that his role is temporary and that he may leave the national team after the next two training camps and friendly matches against Kuwait on October 9 in Tashkent and Uruguay on October 13 in Malaysia.

At the presentation ceremony, Ermatov dismissed reports claiming that Cannavaro and his staff would earn €4 million annually, describing them as “far from reality”.

“The figure circulating in the media is not even half of half that amount,” he said. “We agreed with the coach not to disclose the exact sum, but I can assure you everything has been done transparently and within the association’s means.”

Ermatov emphasized that the appointment of Cannavaro aligns with Uzbekistan’s ambition to compete confidently at the global level.

“Our goal is to perform with dignity at the World Cup,” he said. “Cannavaro was among the best defenders in football history – a World Cup champion, Ballon d’Or winner, and a symbol of discipline and leadership. His defensive mindset and tactical discipline can bring new energy and structure to our team.”

Cannavaro, who previously managed Guangzhou Evergrande, Al-Nassr, Benevento, Udinese, and Dinamo Zagreb, said he was excited to take on the challenge and believes Uzbekistan’s football potential is growing rapidly.

Speaking to reporters, the 52-year-old Italian noted that the idea of a friendly match between Uzbekistan and Italy is realistic, given the growing competitiveness of Asian teams.

“It’s not difficult to arrange,” Cannavaro said. “Uzbekistan is a World Cup participant, while Italy still hasn’t qualified. Football is developing fast, especially in Asia. The level of Asian teams is rising, and Uzbekistan has a solid system focused on youth development.”

Cannavaro said he personally requested that Kapadze stay on his staff, citing the importance of local expertise and communication with players.

“I asked Ravshan Ermatov to keep Timur on board. Local coaches are a big help because understanding players’ mentality and culture is crucial,” he said.

The new head coach added that he intends to spend significant time in Uzbekistan, observing domestic matches and working closely with local coaches.

“I brought a lot of luggage this time – even my bicycle,” he joked. “I want to be among people, attend youth games, and contribute to the development of football here. I’m full of motivation.”

Cannavaro also highlighted his desire to increase the intensity of the Super League and introduce data-based player monitoring.

“We’ll discuss with club coaches about tracking players’ physical metrics. High-tempo play and proper recovery are essential if we want to compete internationally. The World Cup level is completely different, and we must adapt to that standard,” he said.

Ermatov stressed that appointing Cannavaro was not a sign of disrespect to previous coaches, including Srečko Katanec, who led Uzbekistan to World Cup qualification but stepped down due to health issues.

“Timur Kapadze’s professionalism is beyond question,” he said. “Our aim is collective growth. Cannavaro has already begun meeting youth coaches and conducting analytical sessions – this is a sign of professionalism. We must keep improving every day.”