Fabio Cannavaro, the former Italian World Cup winner now coaching Uzbekistan, has announced a preliminary squad of 40 players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup training camp. Domestic players, including goalkeeper Abduvokhid Nematov, are expected to begin preparations this weekend, while overseas-based and injured professionals will join later for the tournament set to kick off on June 11 in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The most valuable player in Cannavaro’s squad is Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov (22), with a market value of €35 million. The center-back has been a regular for Uzbekistan since mid-2023, earning 25 caps. He is followed by the Basaksehir attacking duo: captain Eldor Shomurodov (30) and Abbosbek Fayzullaev (22), both valued at €7 million.
Uzbekistan will compete in Group K of the World Cup against Colombia (June 18, 04:00 German time), Portugal (June 23, 19:00), and DR Congo (June 27, 01:30). Before the tournament, Cannavaro’s side will play two friendlies: against host Canada (June 2, 03:00) and the Netherlands (June 8, 18:45).
