
Is Fabio Cannavaro A-List?
No — Fabio Cannavaro is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2004
Juventus Transfer and Captaincy
Lost A-list status in 2011
Dropped to B tier — Return to Italy Retirement
Ranking Timeline
Professional Debut with Napoli
Cannavaro made his Serie A debut with Napoli at age 20. This marked the beginning of his professional career as a promising young defender in Italian football.
Transfer to Parma
Moved to Parma where he developed into a top-class defender. His performances attracted attention from bigger clubs and increased his market value significantly.
Inter Milan Move
Transferred to Inter Milan, establishing himself as one of Serie A's best defenders. His leadership and defensive skills earned him recognition as a world-class center-back.
Juventus Transfer and Captaincy
Joined Juventus and became captain, leading the team to Serie A titles. His reputation as one of Europe's elite defenders was cemented during this period.
World Cup Victory and Ballon d'Or
Captained Italy to World Cup glory and won the Ballon d'Or, becoming the first defender in a decade to win the award. This was the pinnacle of his playing career.
Real Madrid Transfer
Moved to Real Madrid for €7 million, joining the Galácticos era. Though past his absolute peak, he remained a respected and influential defender at the highest level.
Return to Italy Retirement
Returned to Italy and retired from playing at age 37. Transitioned into coaching, though with less success than his playing career.
Coaching Uzbekistan National Team
Currently coaching Uzbekistan's national team. Remembered as one of football's greatest defenders and 2006 World Cup hero, though his coaching career has been modest compared to his playing legacy.
Last updated: February 25, 2026