Uzbekistan national team defender Abdukodir Khusanov has not only found his place in the EPL, but has also become a reliable tool for one of the strongest specialists in world football - Pep Guardiola. Every step of our 21-year-old footballer at Manchester City is being watched with great interest not only in our country but throughout Europe.
From "Tank" at "Lance" to a reliable shield in the EPL
Khusanov's entry into European senior football began in 2023 with his transfer from the Belarusian club Energetik-BGU to the French team Lens. The defender, who was acquired for 450,000 euros, soon earned the nickname "Tank" in France and enhanced his reputation. In January 2025, City signed him for €40 million - a historic and highly profitable deal for Lens.
Guardiola's trust and trials at Etihad
The first six months in Manchester were not easy for Abdukodir. Errors caused by injuries and lack of experience led to criticism. However, Guardiola was able to see the enormous potential in him. From the beginning of 2026, Khusanov became the true savior of the team. While stars like Stones, Dias, and Guardiol were injured, Abdukodir took on the defensive line.
Numbers and speed: Khusanov is at the top of the EPL rankings
This season, Khusanov is impressing not only with his reliable defensive play but also with his speed. He was ranked among the fastest players in the EPL and Champions League. Although Mark Guehi joined the team in January, Abdukodir did not give up his position; on the contrary, he formed a strong tandem with him. His account:
- To snatch 17 balls from the opponent;
- There are 18 attempts to capture the ball.
Manchester City Revolution in Uzbekistan
Abdukodir's transfer brought unexpected economic and marketing results for the club. According to Manchester Evening News:
- The number of City fans in Uzbekistan has increased by 500%.
- The club's YouTube channel reached 26 million views in Uzbekistan (4th place in the world).
- An official fan club has been established in Tashkent, and bookings for VIP guests have increased ninefold.
Abdukodir Khusanov not only stops such rivals as "Tank" on the football field, but also becomes a huge bridge between Uzbekistan and world football. Each of his successes in "Etixad" is a source of great pride and motivation for the youth of our country.
Do you think Husanov will be able to become the main captain of Manchester City in the future?
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