Paolo Cannavaro
Italian defender who captained Napoli to Coppa Italia glory.
Paolo Cannavaro (born 26 June 1981) is an Italian former professional footballer who played as a centre-back and most recently was the head coach of Serie C club Pro Vercelli.
Quick Facts
- Height
- 1.85 m / 6 ft 1 in
- Born
- 26 June 1981
- Birthplace
- Naples, Italy
- Position
- Centre back
- Total caps
- 464
- Total goals
- 14
Lore & Background
Cannavaro began his career with Napoli, moved to Parma in 1999, and played alongside his older brother Fabio. He had a loan spell with Verona during the 2001–02 season. He returned to Napoli in 2006, became captain, and helped the club win the Coppa Italia in 2012. He later played for Sassuolo from 2014 until his retirement in 2017. After retiring, he served as an assistant coach under his brother at Guangzhou Evergrande, Benevento, and Udinese. He became head coach of Pro Vercelli in June 2024 but resigned in November 2024.
Reader's Guide
Cannavaro was known for his ability in the air and his skill in creating chances or starting attacking plays from the back after winning back possession.
Did You Know?
- Cannavaro made his professional debut for Napoli at age 17 during the 1998–99 Serie B season.
- Cannavaro earned his only senior Italy call-up in October 2007 but did not play.
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