Fabio Cannavaro takes the helm at China PR
Former Italy captain’s first test is the 2019 China Cup
Previous coach Marcello Lippi stays on as an advisor
Fabio Cannavaro was announced as China PR's new head coach on Friday, as the Chinese Football Association (CFA) revealed the news via media release.
Cannavaro, who captained Italy to a 2006 FIFA World Cup™ win and garnered 2006 FIFA World Player of the Year honours, was unveiled as a replacement for Marcello Lippi, who announced his resignation after the 2019 AFC Asian Cup this past January. Despite stepping down from the head coach position, Lippi will remain with the team to work as an advisor.
Most recently Cannavaro served as head coach at Guangzhou Evergrande, where he won the CFA Super Cup in 2018.
His first test in charge of the world's most populous nation will be the 2019 China Cup, a four-nation tournament beginning on 21 March. This year's competition, its third edition, features Thailand, Uzbekistan, Uruguay and the hosts.