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Abdukodir Khusanov becomes the first Uzbek international in the Premier League after signing for Manchester City.
Manchester City signed Abdukodir Khusanov (X)
Manchester City announced the signing of Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens on a four-and-a-half-year deal. The Uzbekistan international defender will join up with Pep Guardiola’s squad for the second part of the 2024/25 season, with his contract keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2029.
Khusanov becomes the first Uzbek international to play in the Premier League.
Khusanov joined French side Lens from Belarusian Club Energetik-BGU in the summer of 2023 and has established himself as one of the most exciting young defenders in Ligue 1.
Only 20 years old, the centre-back already has 18 appearances for his country and has helped Uzbekistan make a strong start in their challenge to qualify for a first World Cup, in 2026.
“I’m really happy to join this team,” said Khusanov.
“I have come here to develop and grow, and to win trophies with City.
“This is one of the major teams in football and the coach is among the best. That’s why I’m here.”
“From the Bunyodkor Academy I moved to Belarus, where I began my professional football career.
“When I was 18 I moved to France. From France now I find myself here at Manchester City.
“I watch Manchester City games and I used to watch them when I was young too.
“I can definitely say that City play interesting football very well with a unique style.
“I’ve always chosen the best coaches. Now too, I have come here to work with the best one.”
“This is not just for me but also for Uzbekistan,” he said.
“The first Uzbek in the Premier League but I’m sure that this is only the beginning.
“More Uzbek players will come and play in the Premier League.
“There is growing interest in football in Uzbekistan.
“For this reason, everybody there wants to qualify for the World Cup, we are just one stop away from qualifying.
Abdukodir Khusanov will wear the No 45 shirt at Manchester City.
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain says the defender has huge potential and is delighted he is moving to the Etihad.
“We are very happy that he has joined us, and we are all very excited about what he will bring,” Begiristain said.
“For such a young defender, Abdukodir is already very intelligent, as well as being strong, aggressive and extremely quick.
“Working with Pep will only make him better and, speaking to him, he is determined to keep improving.
“He is a really exciting signing as we aim to keep progressing to maintain one of the best squads in Europe.”
Abdukodir Khusanov Stats
2021/22: Energetik-BGU
Played: 27
Goals: 3
Assists: 4
2022/23: Energetik-BGU
Played: 10
Goals: 1
2023/24: Lens
Played: 15
2024/25: Lens
Played: 16
Assists: 1
