Pep Guardiola makes 10 club transfer admission over Abdukodir Khusanov | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued possibly the ultimate praise for the abilities of central defensive star Abdukodir Khusanov.

The Uzbekistan international has continued to grow in importance for City since arriving one year ago, with Guardiola increasingly trusting the player’s defensive intelligence, pace, and composure in a high-risk system that demands elite positional awareness.

In a side that now increasingly operates with an aggressive defensive line, Abdukodir Khusanov’s recovery speed and anticipation have quickly become valuable assets, and his rise at the club reflects City’s recruitment strategy of identifying players capable of developing into world-class performers rather than established superstars.

Much like previous arrivals who flourished under Guardiola’s coaching over the last decade in particular, Khusanov appears to be another example of a player whose ceiling is far higher than his current profile.

The timing of Pep Guardiola’s praise preceded City strengthening their grip on the Carabao Cup semi-final tie against Newcastle through a controlled 0-2 win at St James’ Park that showcased a growing cohesion as Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki delivered decisive contributions while the defensive structure ensured stability.

Speaking prior to the clash in the North-East on Tuesday night, Pep Guardiola was keen to praise Abdukodir Khusanov – labelling the Uzbek international as a player that would be wanted by Europe’s top-10 clubs.

“Top signing. In the high level he played in France [at Lens] before here, it’s not easy coming here, but I think he’s special. He helps a lot because we play so high, and positions in behind he handles it really well. He loves these kinds of actions,” said Guardiola.

The Manchester City manager continued, “We need him in the process, he’ll learn, so young, so coachable, always training good, gives 100 per cent. He’s faster and faster, he’s so reliable. The club made a good decision.

“If he was in the market, the top 10 clubs would want him because he has a unique quality and special attributes which are so difficult to find. He speaks decent English, understands things quickly.

“To make a step up, he’s maybe better than he believes, and always I encourage him he’s really, really good. He has long passes, breaks lines really good, has incredible pace with the pass, just have more courage, but that’s just a question of time.”

Pep Guardiola’s admission that Abdukodir Khusanov would attract interest from Europe’s elite serves as a powerful endorsement of both the player and Manchester City’s recruitment department, whilst also positioning the defender as a long-term cornerstone of the club’s evolving back line.

Looking ahead, Khusanov’s development could see him take on an even greater leadership role within Pep Guardiola’s defensive unit, especially when the club continue to compete without long-term injury absentees Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol.

The 21-year-old’s ability to progress the ball, recover defensively, and adapt quickly to instructions fits perfectly with the demands of Manchester City’s system.