Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola has highly praised the performance of center-backs Abdukodir Khusanov and Marc Guehi, despite the team's defensive personnel challenges. The specialist described their actions on the pitch as "exceptional."
According to the manager, both players have achieved significant growth during the current season. This is considered a crucial factor not only for current results but also for the team's future plans.
At present, City continues to face personnel issues in defense. Experienced defender John Stones is returning to the squad after recovering from injury. However, Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias are still undergoing their rehabilitation processes.
Consequently, the duo of Khusanov and Guehi has been forced to play together in almost every match in central defense. Josko Gvardiol has been sidelined since January due to a broken leg, while Ruben Dias has been unable to participate in matches in recent weeks due to a hamstring injury.
Nevertheless, the team's defense is demonstrating stable performance. The fact that Manchester City has conceded only one goal in its last four matches is attributed to the reliable and solid play of these two defenders.
Marc Guehi joined the team from Crystal Palace for 20 million pounds during the winter transfer window and quickly secured a firm place in the starting lineup. His composure and ability to read the game have caught the attention of fans.
Meanwhile, Abdukodir Khusanov has continued to enhance his skills and fully justify the coach's trust since his 33.5 million pound transfer from Lens in January 2025.
Pep Guardiola emphasized that all processes in the team are currently progressing positively, and he is particularly pleased with the growth of the young players. In his view, players like Khusanov and Guehi will continue to develop for many years and bring great benefit to the team.
He also made special mention of Nathan Ake's performance, specifically praising his participation in the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal. This situation demonstrates that the team's defense can fulfill its duties even when key defenders are missing.
Guardiola's sentiment that "the future is bright" is becoming increasingly significant at a time when major changes are expected in the team this summer. Bernardo Silva has announced his departure, while Rodri's future remains uncertain.
However, the emergence of reliable defenders like Khusanov and Guehi is serving as a vital foundation for the club in building a solid defense.
As the decisive phase of the Premier League begins, goal difference is taking on great importance alongside every point earned. Therefore, every "clean sheet" until the end of the season could become a decisive factor in the title race. For now, the primary duo successfully fulfilling this task remains Abdukodir Khusanov and Marc Guehi.
