Teammates and coaches have praised Khusanov’s potential
Manchester City is on the verge of finalizing a surprising winter transfer: 20-year-old Uzbek defender Abduqodir KHUSANOV from RC Lens for an estimated €50 million, reports a Kazinform News Agency correspondent.
This deal will make Khusanov the first Uzbek player in the Premier League and the most expensive in his country’s history, surpassing Eldor SHOMURODOV’S €20 million move to Roma.
Khusanov, who attracted interest from clubs like Tottenham, Newcastle, and Real Madrid, has rapidly risen to prominence. However, only City was willing to meet Lens’s asking price. Man City’s head coach Pep GUARDIOLA personally approved the transfer, signaling plans for Khusanov in the team.
Khusanov’s journey is remarkable. A product of Bunyodkor in Uzbekistan, he moved to Belarus in 2022 to join Energetik-BDU and later transferred to Lens in 2023 for just €100,000. His impressive performances for Uzbekistan’s youth teams, including U-20 and U-23 championships and participation in the Olympics, caught scouts’ attention.
At Lens, Khusanov took advantage of an unexpected opportunity. When Kevin Danso’s transfer to Roma fell through due to health issues, Khusanov stepped in and excelled, securing his place in the starting lineup. His physicality, speed, and aggressive style—dubbed “X-factors”—set him apart as one of Ligue 1’s standout defenders.
Khusanov’s versatility has been shaped under Lens coach Will Still, who employs varying defensive tactics. He has demonstrated adaptability by playing multiple central defense roles, a quality that will be valuable at Manchester City.
Despite his promise, Khusanov has areas to improve, such as positioning, communication, and aerial duels. Analysts view this transfer as a long-term investment rather than an immediate first-team addition.
Teammates and coaches have praised Khusanov’s potential. Lens goalkeeper Brice Samba described him as “a monster that scares him”, while coach Still called his potential “limitless”.
While it may take time for Khusanov to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding system, his combination of speed, strength, and composure makes him an exciting prospect for Manchester City and a trailblazer for Uzbek football.
Collage credit: Abdukodir Khusanov's Instagram account/ Canva/ Kazinform.
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