Official: Cannavaro is new coach of GNK Dinamo Zagreb | OneFootball

Italy’s 2006 World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro is officially the new coach of GNK Dinamo Zagreb, so is in the same league as Gennaro Gattuso’s Hajduk Split.

The two teammates in that glorious success story in Germany 2006 are now competing on the touchlines of Croatia.

Cannavaro, who turned 51 in September, was today formally appointed as the new coach of GNK Dinamo Zagreb.

His previous management roles have all been rather short-lived, with experiences in China with Guangzhou Evergrande, Tianjin Quanjian and the China national team.

He also sat on the benches of Al-Nassr, Serie B side Benevento and for just six games last season in Serie A with Udinese.

Cannavaro will make his debut for GNK Dinamo Zagreb against Arsenal in London for the Champions League on January 22, 2025.

UDINE, ITALY – MAY 06: Fabio Cannavaro, Head Coach of Udinese Calcio, looks on prior to the Serie A TIM match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Dacia Arena on May 06, 2024 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“The new coach cultivates the style of play that we need for the return of dominance in the HNL, he builds the game and imposes dominance,” insisted director Marco Maric on the official club website.

“It is about great charisma that can convey rich playing experience, but also coaching, given that he has behind him results in China, where he was champion.

“He is hungry for success and that is why he was waiting for the challenge of a club that belongs to the top and has the ambition to win titles. He knows our team very well, as well as the entire HNL. He knows what goals lie ahead of him in Dinamo and is aware of the situation the club is in.”

As for Gattuso, the 46-year-old was appointed by Hajduk Split in July and has this season overseen 13 victories, eight draws and three defeats.

Cannavaro is new GNK Dinamo Zagreb coach