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Abdukodir Khusanov is a young defender from Uzbekistan who is making waves in the Premier League.
The 21-year-old is shaping up as a key figure for the Uzbeks’ national team as they make their maiden appearance in the FIFA World Cup next year.
As a result, his talent, determination, and breakthrough with Manchester City is, and will continue to inspire a new generation as he charters his journey to greatness.
ABDUKODIR KHUSANOV EARLY LIFE AND CAREER
Abdukodir Khusanov was born on February 29, 2004, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
On the other hand, he displayed natural athleticism and innate reading for football at a young age that made him a standout in school and academy matches.
Growing up in a football-loving culture, Khusanov was inspired by both local stars and global defensive players.
Then, his early development took place at the Bunyodkor Academy, one of Uzbekistan’s most respected youth programs, at 18 years old.
For this reason, Khusanov sharpened his tackling, positioning, and passing skills, quickly earning recognition at youth tournaments.
Above all, coaches described him as a “leader at the back” even during his teenage years – a rare quality that would become one of his trademarks.
Abdukodor Khusanov Player Profile:
- Full Name: Abdukodir Xikmatjon o’g’li Xusanov
- Date of Birth: February 29, 2004
- Place of Birth: Tashkent, Uzbekistan
- Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
- Position: Center-back
- Preferred Foot: Right
- Jersey Number: 25 – Uzbekistan
45 – Manchester City
ABDUKODIR KHUSANOV EUROPE PRO CAREER AND OTHER LEAGUES
Khusanov made his first professional breakthrough at the Uzbek Super League, which served as his gateway to seek playing overseas.
Then, he took his act to Energetik-BGU Minsk in Belarus in 2022, where playing in Europe’s competitive environment helped him adapt to a faster, more physical game.
In 2023, Khusanov moved to RC Lens in France’s Ligue 1, where his ability to read, play, and win aerial duels quickly caught attention.
Afterward, his performances against top French clubs showcased his maturity beyond his years.
Indeed, the turning point in his career came in 2025, when Manchester City signed him – making Khusanov the first player from Central Asia to join the Premier League.
For instance, his arrival was historic not just for Uzbekistan, but for the entire region, and this marked the start of a new chapter in his football journey.
Club Information
Last Club:
- Manchester City (Premier League) 2025
Previous Clubs:
- Energetik-BGU (Belarussian First League) – 2022-23
- Lens (Ligue 1) – 2023-25
- Lens B (Ligue 1) – 2024
International Career
- National Team: Uzbekistan
- Senior Debut: June 11, 2023 (vs Oman)
- Caps: (as of early 2025): 18
Khusanov debuted for the Uzbekistan senior national team in 2022. Since then, he has transformed to become an indispensable figure in their title defense.
During the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he played a key role in keeping Uzbekistan’s defensive record among the best in Asia.
In particular, his composure under pressure and ability to start attacks from the back made him a vital part of the team’s strategy.
In fact, Khusanov’s leadership and consistency helped Uzbekistan achieve what had eluded them for decades – qualifying for their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
Major Tournaments Played
- AFC U-20 Asian Cup 2023: Champion (Uzbekistan U-20)
- AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers & Tournament 2024 Runner-up with U-23 squad
- 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers: Helped Uzbekistan qualify for their first-ever World Cup
Player Data
- Key Attributes: Aerial dominance, tactical awareness, and versatility in playing multiple positions.
- Strengths:
Comfortable with the ball at his feet, rarely flustered under pressure, and flexible to play center-back in both back four and back three systems. - Weaknesses:
Vulnerable to body shots, lack of offensive power.
Career Highlights
- First Central Asian footballer signed by a Premier League club (Manchester City)
- Key defender for Uzbekistan’s first FIFA World Cup qualification in history (2025)
- Starred for RC Lens in Ligue 1, earning praise for his tactical intelligence.
- Consistent performer in AFC competitions, including the Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers
- Captaincy experience at youth levels, showcasing leadership potential early in his career.
Statistics
Club Appearances and Statistics:
- Total Appearances: 450
- Total Goals: 0
| Club | Years | Appearances (Total) | Goals (Total) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energetik-BGU | 2022–2023 | 27 | 3 |
| Lens | 2023-2024 | 15 | 0 |
| Lens/Man City | 2024-2025 | 25 | 1 |
Country Appearances and Statistics:
- Caps (including friendlies): 18 (as of early 2025)
- Goals: 0
| Competition | Caps | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| AFC Asian Cup | 4 | 0 |
| World Cup Qualifiers | 9 | 0 |
| Friendlies | 5 | 0 |
| Total Competitive Matches (excluding friendlies) | 13 | 0 |
Fun Trivia
- Khusanov was born on Leap Day (February 29), meaning he technically only spends a birthday every four years.
- The first Uzbek footballer to play in both Ligue 1 and the Premier League.
- Speaks Uzbek, Russian, and is learning English gradually to adapt to life in England.
- Khusanov grew up as a fan of both Real Madrid and local club Pakhator Tashkent.
- Known for his pre-match ritual of listening to classical music to stay calm before matches.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR KHUSANOV?
Khusanov is expected to be one of Uzbekistan’s key players as Uzbekistan gears up for its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.
In addition, his experience in Europe’s top leagues will be crucial as the Uzbeks face world-class competition for the first time in football’s global stage.
Beyond the World Cup, Khusanov’s career could see him cement a place as one of Asia’s most accomplished defenders.
Also, fans hope to see Khusanov go toe-to-toe in possible matchups with fellow Asian stars from Song Heung-min to Takefusa Kubo, and Wataru Endo.
Of course, his trailblazing move to Manchester City has already inspired countless young footballers in Uzbekistan and Central Asia to dream big.
KHUSANOV’S LEGACY LIVES ON
Abdukodir Khusanov’s journey is more than a personal success story – it’s a milestone in Central football history.
From Tashkent’s youth fields to the Premier League, his rise shows dedication, resilience, and a vision that extends far beyond borders.
As the world sets its sights on the FIFA World Cup 2026, Khusanov is ready to prove that Uzbekistan’s time on the world stage has truly arrived.
If his career continues its upward trajectory, Khusanov could leave behind a legacy as the man who not only led Uzbekistan to their first World Cup but also paved the way for future generations to shine in Europe’s elite leagues.
Visit our FIFA World Cup 2026 website for more football news and other updates.
