Despite having a terrible Premier League start against Chelsea, Abdukodir Khusanov is gradually establishing himself as a fantastic and exciting potential for Manchester City.
Following an outstanding performance in the recent home loss to Liverpool, where he was a rare bright spot on an otherwise challenging day for the Cityzens, he put on another strong showing in the 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.
The teenage defender, who is now settling into England, has the potential to quickly establish himself as a favourite under Pep Guardiola, if he hasn’t already. City has been going through a tough time, but following the victory over Spurs, his boss was grinning, which is not often seen.
“He is a trustworthy player. So quick, so quick, and the pass quality with the ball is amazing. He is capable of breaking lines.
“He needs to get better, of course, but he’s only twenty years old. He is one of the players with a lot of speed that I have seen,” Guardiola continued. “People love him; he works, is quiet, has no complaints, and is very humble. I’m sure our fans will love him too.”
Khusanov Delivers the Goods vs Spurs
Seven defensive actions, one key pass
Khusanov was unquestionably among the finest players on the pitch against Tottenham, helping City maintain a clean sheet against a team they usually have trouble playing against. His seven defensive actions were the joint-second highest on the field. He performed all the fundamentals incredibly well, winning two of three attempted duels, making two tackles, one interception, recovering four balls, clearing four and not being dribbled past one.
He was usually composed when he had the ball and appeared able to follow Guadiola’s possession-based philosophy, which he expects from all of his defenders. In addition to having six final third entries, he managed 56 touches and completed 85% of his passes, including one crucial pass (only Jeremey Doku managed more that day).
Sean Walsh, a journalist, gave him a 7/10 rating in Goal’s player ratings, noting: “A strong and stable showing at a ground where many a City defender has crumbled in the spotlight.” A positive performance by the young Uzbek.
Manchester City Fans Rave About Khusanov
“Pep adores Khusanov you can tell”
In the event that the statistics and media acclaim are insufficient, the public has also spoken. Both supporters of Manchester City and onlookers at the match couldn’t help but remark on how confident Khusanov appeared against Spurs.
The comment read, “Tell me why he won’t cook next season.” “His price value just more than quadrupled these past few days,” another person wrote. Purchasing him was a great deal.
An admirer commented, “Absolutely brilliant player,” Another admirer concurred, “What a monster have we signed,” One, however, was astounded by his speed: “Khusanov is excellent. No bullshit. aggressive (where appropriate). Additionally, his rate of recovery is a cheat code. Love him already.
Another was persuaded that Guardiola already “adores” the defender and has a “new favourite” in Khusanov.
https://twitter.com/rodriiola/status/1894876203846103291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1894876203846103291%7Ctwgr%5E9477344dcee3499609385bb759504bffd850458c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.givemesport.com%2Fman-city-star-pep-guardiola-now-adores-ace-after-win-vs-spurs%2F
Even the impartial observers expressed admiration, stating: “Khusanov has played five games for Man City.” After a challenging first ten minutes, it has been outstanding. Another said, “Not to be hyperbolic but Khusanov is literally the greatest player ever.”
Khusanov joined French team Lens from Belarusian club Energetik-BGU for just £84,000 eighteen months ago, but his ascent in Ligue 1 was so quick that he was able to secure a £33.6 million plus add-ons move to City this summer. The youthful centre-back, who is only 20 years old, appears set to reach the top if he can keep up this pace.
