Khusanov will have a long City career, says Pep | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says Abdukodir Khusanov will forge a long and sparkling career at Manchester City.

The Uzbekistan international defender signed for the Club in January 2025 from Ligue 1 outfit Lens and has since amassed 15 appearances in all competitions.

That includes starting each of his last four outings for the Blues while playing right-back in wins over Manchester United and Napoli before a 1-1 draw with Arsenal last time out.

At just 21-years-old, Khusanov – who has also featured at centre-back – will continue to gain precious experience this season which will aid his promising development.

And Guardiola believes the acquisition of the defender was a shrewd piece of transfer business by City.

When asked about how impressed he’s been by Khusanov’s development since his arrival, Guardiola replied: “A lot.

“He can play as a central defender, can play all positions in the back line except left-back, I would say.

“He can’t create a lot up front but his sight is unbelievable, solid, stable, physicality, like Kyle [Walker] in his prime.

“He has incredible focus and is so young, he wants to learn. He’s been really really good against tough opponents like we have faced.

“He’s so young, his first experience was coming from Uzbekistan to France for eight or 10 games in Ligue 1.

“Then came here and adapted in a season that was difficult for us, that's why when you come and everything is set it’s easier to let it click and settle.

“The movements and patterns that we have, he is incredible and will learn quick.

“I think you smell that he’s an incredible, top signing for the next many, many years in the club. This guy will make a career in this club for many years.”

Guardiola’s pre-Huddersfield press conference followed the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards which took place on Monday night.

WATCH: Pep Guardiola Huddersfield (A) Press Conference Carabao Cup Part 1

At the ceremony, City’s summer signing Gianluigi Donnarumma was bestowed the Yashin Trophy which is given to the best goalkeeper across the past 12 months.

It followed his exploits for Paris Saint-Germain last term where the 26-year-old played a pivotal role in the French side winning the Treble of Ligue 1, Coupe de France and their maiden Champions League.

And Pep paid tribute to the Italy international and stated his joy in having him within the Club’s ranks.

He added: “I congratulate him, and of course Paris Saint-Germain as well, it’s what he’s done in Paris.

“The impact has been really great, we’re happy to have him and that he can be satisfied. I always say the same, to finish 9, 6,12, as much as you are there and close, you have had a really good season.

“Every season Gigi is there and close as the good goalkeeper he is. Today looks so important, the individual awards, but all the nominees and winners, just well done, well played and congratulations.”