Cannavaro’s departure is a huge loss for Italy. Fabio is of course one of the world’s best centre backs, however Italy will also miss his charisma as a leader.
In saying this Fabio’s loss is not a tragedy. Materazzi, Barzagli and Chiellini are all formidable replacements. The tight defence is augmented by having the world’s best keeper in goals.
Gianluigi Buffon has played over 80 games for Italy. He’s the logical choice to assume ownership over the Italian skipper’s armband. With the strength of the Italian squad, Buffon is probably going to be the only automatic selection that Donadoni will make.
Gigi has previous experience in leading Italy (in a Euro2008 qualifier vs. Georgia). Lest we forget that it was only an own goal and a penalty that made it past the Italian custodian at the last world cup. Buffon also played a leading role in ensuring that Zidane’s headbutt on Marco Materazzi was appropriately handled by match officials in Berlin.
