Abdukodir Khusanov's move from Lens to Manchester City has been recognized as one of the most talked-about transfers of 2025. What drew significant attention was the fact that the "Citizens" agreed to spend €50 million on the 20-year-old Uzbek defender.
The English media have started analyzing the transfer. While many sources view it positively, some experts question the justification for such a significant investment in a player without experience in top clubs.
Journalist Ben Palmer from footballinsider247.com shared the analysis of financial expert Stefan Borson regarding Khusanov's transfer.
- "This season, Manchester City conceded 29 goals in 21 Premier League matches. By comparison, they only allowed 34 goals during the entire last season," Borson noted.
The club allocated £33.6 million (approximately €40 million) for the transfer, making Khusanov their top target for the January window. However, Borson raised concerns about the move.
- "Khusanov's professional experience is limited, his personality may pose challenges, and he doesn't fully fit Guardiola's style. City's system requires years of adaptation by seasoned players, and Khusanov does not display clear superiority over other defenders in the squad," he added.
In addition to Khusanov, Manchester City also signed another central defender, Vitor Reis from Palmeiras. This decision reflects the defensive struggles City has faced recently.
Khusanov, who was only in his second season at Lens, played 31 matches for the French club. Despite this, he made a positive impression on City's management. His playing style is compared to that of Nathan Ake – he's quick, reads the game well, but lacks significant physical superiority.
The pressing question now is whether Guardiola will immediately include Khusanov in the starting lineup or send him out on loan to gain experience. We'll find out the answer soon.
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