In world sports, comparisons have become a tradition. In football, the debate over Ronaldo and Messi remains the central point of discussion over the last 15 years. Likewise, recently, a stage of great development has also begun in the football of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, which leads to mutual comparison of the neighboring countries.
Recognition of the English Giants
Lately, the comparison of the young heroes of the two countries – Abduqodir Khusanov (Uzbekistan) and Dastan Satpayev (Kazakhstan) – has become a trend. The reason is simple: the distinct talent of both players has been recognized by the top clubs of the English Premier League — "Manchester City" and "Chelsea."
Khusanov: A 40 million Euro History
The 21-year-old central defender Abduqodir Khusanov was bought by the "Manchester City" club, managed by Josep Guardiola, from the French club "Lens" for 40 million euros on January 20, 2025. He was formed in the Belarusian team "Energetik-BGU" and played in France.
Khusanov entered history as the first Uzbekistani professional footballer to take the field and score a goal in the English championship. He has played 85 club matches, achieving 5 goals and 5 effective assists, and since 2023, he has participated in 24 matches for the Uzbekistan National Team.
Satpayev: "Chelsea's" great prospect
The 17-year-old striker Dastan Satpayev was brought up in the "Kairat" club. Recognizing his potential, the "Chelsea" club paid 2.4 million euros for the player and included him in their squad, but left him in the Kazakhstan club for now for him to gain experience. Dastan will join the "Chelsea" U-21 squad in the summer of 2026. Satpayev has scored 47 goals and registered 18 assists in 78 matches – this is an astonishing indicator.
Coach Kumykov: "The comparison is inappropriate"
So, which of these two talents is stronger? This question was answered by the Russian experienced specialist Viktor Kumykov, who knows the football of both countries very well. (He managed clubs like "Mash'al," "Nasaf," and OКMK in Uzbekistan).
According to Kumykov:
«Firstly, comparing these two footballers is inappropriate».
«Secondly, they play in different positions (Khusanov is a defender, Satpayev is a striker)».
«Thirdly, Khusanov is much more experienced and has been playing abroad for several years. Satpayev, however, is still considered a player with great prospects and only plays in Kazakhstan».
We wish good luck to both on the international stage!
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