Abdukodir Khusanov: Uzbekistan’s Rising Football Star Making Waves in Europe
In the world of football, there are stories of prodigious talents emerging from unlikely places. Abdukodir Khusanov, a 20-year-old Uzbek defender, is one such talent whose journey from Tashkent to the Premier League is nothing short of extraordinary.
As he steps into the spotlight, Khusanov is rewriting the narrative for Uzbek football, bringing excitement not just to his home country but to the global football stage as well.
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Early Life: A Foundation Rooted in Football
Born on February 29, 2004, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Abdukodir Khusanov was introduced to football at a very young age. His father, Hikmat Hashimov, a former professional player for PFK Metallurg Bekabad, laid the groundwork for his son’s love of the game. It’s clear that Khusanov’s football DNA runs deep. Growing up, he was immersed in the sport, honing his skills and dreams under the influence of a family with strong ties to the game.
Khusanov’s name, meaning “servant of the Almighty” in Arabic, reflects the deep cultural and spiritual traditions of his home country, but on the pitch, he would soon prove to be more than just a servant of fate.
The Bunyodkor Academy: Shaping a Future Star
Khusanov’s football journey took off at the Bunyodkor Academy in Tashkent, one of the most prominent football academies in Uzbekistan.
Here, his potential began to shine through, particularly as a central defender. His agility, strength, and tactical intelligence made him stand out as a player with enormous potential.
From his very first days at the academy, coaches recognized his natural ability to read the game and his versatility, which would later become one of his greatest assets.
His rise through the ranks at Bunyodkor was swift. By the time he was 18, Khusanov had earned a reputation as one of the most promising young talents in Uzbekistan.
A Big Leap: Energetik-BGU and the Belarusian Premier League
In March 2022, Khusanov took a significant step in his career, moving to Belarus to join Energetik-BGU, a club competing in the Belarusian Premier League.
At just 18 years old, the move was bold, but it showcased his desire to challenge himself in a more competitive environment.
Khusanov wasted no time making an impact. He made his debut for Energetik-BGU in a 3-1 win over Vitebsk, and over the next season and a half, he racked up 35 appearances, contributing four goals and two assists.
His performances were so impressive that he earned a spot in the symbolic team of the Belarusian Premier League for 2022, cementing his status as one of the league’s most promising defenders.
His time in Belarus not only sharpened his skills but also drew the attention of top European scouts, setting the stage for his next big move.
The French Connection: RC Lens and a Bright Future in Ligue 1
In July 2023, Khusanov made a significant move to France, joining Ligue 1 club RC Lens. The French league, known for its competitive nature, was a perfect next step for the young defender, and Khusanov adapted quickly to the high demands of French football.
His debut for Lens came on September 16, 2023, against Metz, and it marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Khusanov’s time at RC Lens has been nothing short of remarkable. In November 2023, he made history by becoming the youngest Uzbek to play in a UEFA competition, featuring in a Champions League match against Arsenal.
His versatility on the field allowed him to perform in multiple defensive positions, and his calmness on the ball caught the eye of coaches and teammates alike. His performances in Ligue 1 have seen him become a regular in the team, and many now consider him one of the league’s top young defenders.
The Premier League Dream: Khusanov Joins Manchester City
The football world was buzzing when, in January 2025, Khusanov made a landmark move to one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs—Manchester City.
The transfer, worth €40 million, not only made Khusanov the first Uzbek player to sign for a Premier League club but also marked a significant moment for Uzbek football.
At Manchester City, Khusanov joined a team filled with elite players, including world-class defenders, and he is now working under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, one of the most successful managers of his generation.
In his Premier League debut against Chelsea on January 25, 2025, Khusanov faced a steep learning curve but showed resilience, proving his readiness to compete at the highest level.
International Glory: Representing Uzbekistan on the World Stage
Khusanov’s journey is not limited to club football. His international career has also been a defining aspect of his rise to prominence. He started with the Uzbekistan U17 team, where he earned three caps.
From there, he progressed through the U19 and U20 teams, consistently delivering strong performances and playing a pivotal role in Uzbekistan’s victory at the AFC U-20 Asian Cup in 2023.
His performances at youth level earned him a call-up to the senior national team, where he now boasts 18 caps. Khusanov’s contributions to the national team have not gone unnoticed, and he is viewed as one of the key players for Uzbekistan in their efforts to make a mark on the international footballing stage.
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Playing Style: A Modern Defender with Endless Potential
Khusanov’s playing style reflects the modern demands of a central defender. Standing at 1.86 meters, he combines physicality with exceptional speed, which makes him a force to be reckoned with in both defensive situations and counter-attacks.
His ability to read the game and his composure on the ball are two standout attributes that make him a unique player in his position.
Guardiola, a coach known for his high standards, has praised Khusanov’s calmness and speed. However, he also notes that the young defender’s development is far from complete, emphasizing that his decision-making will be crucial as he continues to mature into one of the world’s top defenders.
Khusanov’s Impact on Uzbek Football and Legacy
Abdukodir Khusanov’s rise to stardom is nothing short of inspiring. As the first Uzbek to play in the Premier League and one of the brightest young defenders in Europe, his success has elevated the profile of Uzbek football.
His journey from Tashkent to Manchester City has captured the imagination of fans in Uzbekistan and around the world, sparking hope for more players from Central Asia to follow in his footsteps.
Khusanov’s legacy is already beginning to take shape. Beyond his individual accomplishments, he is contributing to a wider movement in Uzbek football, helping to establish his country as a growing force on the international stage.
Conclusion: A Star in the Making
Abdukodir Khusanov is no longer just an emerging talent—he is a rising star who has already made history at such a young age. As he continues to develop at Manchester City under the tutelage of one of the most accomplished coaches in the world, the future looks bright for the young Uzbek defender. Football fans will be watching closely, as Khusanov is set to become one of the key players of his generation, both for club and country.