In the central clash of the 25th round of the English Premier League - the match between the reigning champions "Liverpool" and "Manchester City," an unexpected event occurred that instantly alerted Uzbek fans. The Uzbekistan national team's central defender, Abdukodir Khusanov, became a victim of an unfortunate collision while once again demonstrating his physical strength, courage, and sensitivity at Anfield.
Around the 60th minute of the game, Khusanov threw himself into the ball's path to prevent the hosts' striker Cody Gakpo from scoring. Just as the defender was about to finish, Gianluigi Donnarumma's knee touched Abdukodir's face. This clash might have seemed like a simple episode, but the first reaction on the field gave everyone a clear signal: Donnarumma immediately understood the situation and urgently called the doctors.
It is said that after receiving medical attention, Khusanov expressed his readiness to continue the game. However, City's medical staff and protocol requirements came first: there are recommendations related to head injuries and possible concussions, and no one has the right to play with risk. Therefore, Abdukodir did not return to the field and was substituted.
Naturally, this situation worries not only Uzbekistan but also neutral football fans from various countries who support Khusanov. Because Abdukodir is still 21 years old, but he has already become known as a defender who tries not to make mistakes even in high-pressure games, is confident in himself, and doesn't shy away from tough battles.
What do the initial data say?
Some influential sports sources in England, citing their own sources, have released preliminary information about Khusanov's condition. They have one thing in common: the club will thoroughly examine it and make a decision without rushing.
CITYXTRA.CO.UK reports that City's defense faced significant pressure in the second half, and Khusanov was caught between two players in one of these defensive situations. After Donnarumma's knee touched the face, the defender was substituted based on medical recommendations.
According to the same source, Pep Guardiola could not say anything specific about Khusanov's condition at the post-match press conference. However, the head coach highly praised the Uzbek defender's performance and specifically acknowledged his debut at Anfield:
"Khusanov... Played for the first time at Anfield. He came from Uzbekistan, spent six months in France, then joined us... Before him were Ekitike and Salah. What a brilliant game this guy played!"
These words are not just simple compliments. This is the trust of a demanding coach like Guardiola. And for the fan, such an assessment is a powerful signal that Khusanov has a place in the City project.
STANDARD.CO.UK notes that "City" has a wide list of injuries, which is why Guardiola always makes difficult decisions when choosing a squad. According to the source, although Ruben Dias was restored at Anfield, the coach fielded Khusanov in the starting lineup. However, around the 60th minute, he was forced to leave the field. He also suggests that Khusanov might be ready before the home game against Fulham.
MANCHESTEREVENINGNEWS.CO.UK writes that Khusanov's collision raised suspicion of a concussion, so Ruben Dias was substituted. There is also talk that Khusanov's possible return may coincide with the match against "Salford City" on February 14.
Why are the dates different?
The most important aspect now is that different sources say different return dates. This is natural: until the club makes an official statement, everything will remain at the level of insight and speculation. The best course of action for head injuries is caution. The mood of "continuing the game" demonstrates a professional psyche, but the decision is still made by a medical protocol.
Manchester City has not yet released an official statement regarding Khusanov's condition. But one thing is clear: the club will not put its prospective player at risk. This is a normal, correct, and forward-looking approach.
All that remains for now is good hope. We believe Abdukodir's injury is not serious, and he will soon return to the field, delighting both City fans and Uzbekistan with his tough, reliable, and courageous play. Yes, this is football: it "steals" the heart in an instant. But guys like Khusanov usually recover quickly - because their character is stronger than the "protocol."
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