The 2025/26 FA Cup season concluded with Manchester City's triumph. A total of 124 teams participated in the prestigious 145th edition of the tournament. The 'Citizens' started from the third round, played six matches, and ultimately secured the trophy.
Pep Guardiola's side performed convincingly on their path to the cup. In the 3rd round, Exeter City were thrashed 10-1. In the next round, Salford City were defeated 2-0. In the Round of 16, Newcastle United were overcome 3-1. In the quarter-finals, Manchester City scored four unanswered goals against Liverpool.
After beating Southampton 2-1 in the semi-finals, they defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the decisive final. The only goal of the match was scored by Antoine Semenyo in the 72nd minute. Thus, Manchester City once again demonstrated their strength in the FA Cup.
Uzbekistan national team defender Abdukodir Khusanov played a significant role in this successful campaign. The statistics and analysis portal SofaScore announced the FA Cup Team of the Season, which included Khusanov.
The 22-year-old center-back was highly rated for his reliable performances throughout the tournament. According to SofaScore, Khusanov's average rating in the FA Cup was 7.32. This proves that he is not only finding his place in the City squad but also performing consistently in major competitions.
According to SofaScore, the FA Cup Team of the Season is as follows: Lucas Perri in goal; Marc Guehi, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Abdukodir Khusanov in defense. The midfield includes Andrey Santos, Nico Gonzalez, Jeremy Doku, Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto, and Antoine Semenyo. Erling Haaland leads the attack.
This recognition is of special importance for Khusanov. He joined Manchester City on January 20, 2025, signing a contract until June 30, 2029. Thus, Abdukodir became the first Uzbek footballer in the history of Manchester City and the Premier League.
Although an adaptation period was initially expected, Khusanov managed to prove himself in a short time. This season, he secured a firm place in the starting lineup. The 22-year-old defender started the team's recent matches and played the full 90 minutes.
During this period, Manchester City won six games, drew twice, and remained undefeated. Such a result demonstrates stability in the defensive line and how quickly Khusanov has integrated into the team's system.
Khusanov's SofaScore ratings remained consistent throughout the season, mostly ranging between 6.6 and 7.7. In the 3-0 win against Crystal Palace, he also provided an assist. This shows that Abdukodir is a useful player not only in defense but also in starting attacks and set-piece situations.
By the end of the season, Khusanov had participated in 37 matches across all competitions. For a debut season in English football, this is a very serious achievement. Especially in a highly competitive team like Manchester City, gaining such playing time is a great success for any young player.
In short, Abdukodir Khusanov has written another historic page for Uzbek football by being included in the FA Cup Team of the Season. Manchester City won the cup, and Khusanov etched his name on this winning path with his reliable performances. He is now recognized not just as the 'first Uzbek', but as a serious defender who has proven himself in English football.
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