Fabio Cannavaro has revealed that the process of qualifying for the World Cup

Former Italy defender Fabio Cannavaro has revealed that the process of qualifying for the World Cup will always be difficult and this is especially true in the case of the European teams for the 2018 edition.

The former Real Madrid and Juventus star was recently part of the qualification ceremony for the upcoming tournament. Group stages have been announced for the qualification phases. Cannavaro is one of the experienced players to be able to talk about qualification for this tournament. After all, he has managed to feature in four world cups in his stellar career. There was a crowning moment when he led the team to success in the 2006 edition.

Cannavaro says that he is not worried about other teams failing to make it into the tournament as long as Italy reach the finals. The future of the Italian national team continues to be under doubt. After being knocked out at the two stages in the last World Cup, they were expected to perform well under the regime of Antonio Conte. However, the former Juventus manager is yet to imprint his stamp on the team. Italy have been given a tough group for qualification, as they will be alongside 2010 World champions Spain.

“It will certainly be an interesting battle, because at the end of the day a World Cup is a World Cup; everyone wants to be there and will be willing to give everything to book a ticket to Russia. Honestly, as long as Italy are there, I’ll be happy. It’s very important for us Italians to take part in the tournament. Everything else counts for very little,” said Cannavaro. Italy are not being placed as one of the favourites for the title, as this tag has been given to reigning champions Germany with their young and vibrant squad.