Since Uzbekistan national team central defender Abdukodir Khusanov joined Manchester City, interest in this team has been growing among our compatriots. This season, Josep Guardiola is expected to compete for gold medals in all competitions where the Citizens participate. However, very complex and responsible trials lie ahead.
City are expected to play three decisive matches in the English Premier League and the Champions League in a short period - just five days. The derby against Manchester United will take place on September 14th at the Etihad Stadium. Following this, a test against Italian champions Napoli awaits them in Europe on September 18th. Then, on September 20th, the team will travel to London to visit fierce rivals Arsenal.
In recent weeks, the "citizens" have faced a number of injuries and physical problems. This affected not only the results of the domestic championship, but also the players' trips to the national teams.
In particular, the Algerian national team did not call up defender Ryan Ait-Nuri to the training camp, and the English national team brought back Rico Lewis and John Stones. Abdukodir Khusanov, who was injured in the match against "Brighton," also did not participate in the "CAFA Nations Cup 2025" with the Uzbekistan national team.
However, the situation is changing more and more positively. In the first training sessions after the international break, Savio, Phil Foden, Yoshko Guardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rico Lewis, Kelvin Phillips, Nico O'Reilly, and Marcus Bettinelli rejoined the squad. This allows Guardiola to expand tactical capabilities and organize new rotations in defense and attack.
Especially if the recovery of Khusanov and Guardiol fills the gaps in the defensive line, Phil Foden and Savio can be deployed as a decisive force in various offensive schemes.
Cityxtra.co.uk journalist Freddie Pay noted that millions of fans were eagerly awaiting such exciting news, and this could greatly help City overcome the difficulties at the start of the season.
As a reminder, the Manchester City vs. Manchester United derby, part of the 4th round of the Premier League, kicks off at 8:30 PM on September 14th.
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