The management of Manchester City has made a final decision regarding the club’s most productive defenders and decided to offer them “new and improved” salary conditions to keep them in the squad for a long period.
Currently, the “Citizens” are focusing primarily on two players who have a high impact in the team – the outstanding right-back Mateus Nunes and the central defender Abdukodir Khusanov. The possibility of concluding new contracts with even more favorable terms with them is being considered.
Mateus Nunes has shown himself this season as one of Manchester City’s best and key right-backs. The Portuguese player has strengthened his main role and fully adapted to the new position under head coach Josep Guardiola. This season he has played over 30 matches in all competitions and shared his impressions after reaching his 100th match for the club.
Nunes moved to Manchester City in the summer of 2023 from Wolverhampton for £53 million and has now become one of the team’s most versatile and reliable players. His flawless performance has almost eliminated the need to look for a replacement for Kyle Walker.
Abdukodir Khusanov, since joining the club in January 2025, has proven himself as one of the most promising young defenders in the English Premier League. His reliable performances in central defense have attracted the attention of fans and experts and have been highly appreciated by the wider football community.
Khusanov has become a fan favorite at the Etihad Stadium. His performances against strong teams like Real, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle are especially recognized by experts. Brought in as an urgent transfer for €40 million, Khusanov turned from an unknown player into a team leader within 15 months.
According to the new decision, Nunes’ contract with the Etihad runs until summer 2028, and Khusanov’s contract until mid-2029. Currently, there is no risk of their contracts ending. At the same time, the club management’s decision to raise their salaries shows recognition of their importance to the team and the desire to build the future team core around these players.
These actions are being implemented as part of a large-scale contract process. Manchester City is also preparing for potential player departures in the summer, so retaining key and highly capable players becomes even more important.
Through the new contracts, sporting director Hugo Viana aims to strengthen the team leaders and form the club’s main core for the upcoming seasons.
These decisions demonstrate the high value and attention given to Nunes and Khusanov, as well as Manchester City’s trust in these players.
