Former Udinese manager Fabio Cannavaro has been named the new head coach of Croatian giants Dinamo Zagreb, just months after parting ways with Serie A side Udinese at the end of last season.

Cannavaro replaces Nenad Bjelica and faces the challenge of revitalizing a team currently sitting third in the league standings, trailing Rijeka and Hajduk Split by seven points.

The former Juventus and Real Madrid star will officially take charge on January 3, when he joins the team for their mid-season preparations.

Dinamo Zagreb announced the appointment in a statement:
“Fabio Cannavaro is the new coach of the first team of GNK Dinamo. That decision of the Management Board and the sports director was supported by the club president and the Executive Board tonight at the 15th session of the Executive Board.

“The new coach will join the first team at the gathering on January 3, when he will be officially presented.

“We congratulate Mr. Cannavaro on his new position and wish him the best of luck and success on the Dinamo bench.”

Cannavaro, who previously managed Benevento, Al Nassr, and Guangzhou Evergrande, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Fans will be eager to see how the World Cup-winning captain translates his leadership skills to success on the pitch for Dinamo Zagreb.