Manchester City’s squad has been seriously renewed over the last two transfer windows, yet the team still hasn’t reached full balance, writes inglaterrafootball.com.
Under Pep Guardiola, the team has recently faced significant problems, especially in defense. The main issue remains the right-back position. For now, only 21-year-old Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov satisfies Guardiola with his performance.
Although Abdukodir is naturally a central defender, at City his speed and positional awareness greatly help to cover the right flank. For this reason, Guardiola has been testing him precisely in that role.
In the center, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, John Stones, and Khusanov are competing for places. Stones is aging and prone to injuries; his recovery process is taking a long time.
Meanwhile, Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol admitted he is still struggling to regain full form after his injury:
— The knee injury kept me from playing for a long time. Everything is under control now, but I feel heavy fatigue. This is because I couldn’t complete proper preseason preparation, — he said.
Following this situation, trust in the central defense has shifted toward Abdukodir Khusanov. He plays confidently both in the center and on the right side, standing out as a versatile player.
Thus, new opportunities are opening up for Khusanov within City’s defensive structure. Guardiola is pleased with his determination and physical stability on the field, which is why the Uzbek defender is being given a special place in the club’s future plans.
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