If a footballer is ready at 17–19, he should be called up to the national team – Cannavaro

Uzbekistan national team head coach Fabio Cannavaro shared his views on young players shortlisted for the national squad following the training camp held in Dubai ahead of the World Cup.

“It’s not about age, it’s about quality. What matters is not how old a footballer is, but his talent and fighting character. If a player is ready at 17–19, he should be called up to the national team. Why should we keep them in the U-21 or U-23 teams just because they are young?

When I go to watch a match, it’s not just a courtesy visit. I want to see the player with my own eyes, how he acts in real match situations. Even when I’m traveling, I enjoy going to stadiums. Nothing compares to watching a game live. Sitting at home and watching several videos in a row is boring for me. I prefer to go to the stadium and observe the player directly, because you can’t notice small details through video. And those fine details can later turn out to be crucial,” Cannavaro said.

For reference, as part of the Dubai training camp, Cannavaro’s team drew 2–2 with China on January 26 this year, and on January 30 defeated Armenia’s Urartu club 4–2.

It is worth noting that Uzbekistan’s national team has been placed in Group “K” of the World Cup group stage, alongside Portugal, Colombia, and the winner of the playoff match between Jamaica, Congo, and New Caledonia.