Fabio Cannavaro names Uzbekistan squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 featuring Abdukodir Khusanov
Uzbekistan manager Fabio Cannavaro has announced his 26-man squad for FIFA World Cup 2026.
Having begun AFC qualification for the FIFA World Cup under Srecko Katanec, Timur Kapadze led Uzbekistan to this tournament but he has since been replaced by FIFA World Cup 2006 and 2006 Ballon d’Or winner Fabio Cannavaro.
Cannavaro is expected to try and cultivate an Uzbekistan side that are tough to play against in a tough group alongside Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Portugal.
A lot of that defensive solidity will be built upon the versatile Abdukodir Khusanov, who has enjoyed an impressive season in the Premier League with Manchester City.
The other key man and notable standout player in the Uzbek squad is former Roma forward Eldor Shomurodov, who is Uzbekistan’s all-time top scorer and the national team captain.
Shomurodov’s Istanbul Basaksehir teammate Abbosbek Fayzullaev is perhaps the other most recognisable name in the Uzbek squad, alongside experienced midfielder Otabek Shukurov, formerly of Fatih Karagumruk.
Neftchi Baku left-back Ibrohimhalil Yo’ldoshev has missed out on the tournament due to injury with 74-cap defender Islom Tukhtakhujaev has been phased out since last summer.
