Abdukodir Khusanov injury update as Manchester City return delayed | OneFootball

Manchester City’s return of Abdukodir Khusanov could be delayed by a further week, according to new information from Uzbekistan.

Pep Guardiola’s side may have to continue without one of their most promising defensive options this weekend, with Khusanov’s recovery reportedly slower than initially expected.

The Uzbekistan international has been sidelined since suffering an injury during the 1-1 Premier League draw with Arsenal last month, and despite recent optimism around his progress, a full return to training has yet to materialise.

Khusanov’s absence has been felt across multiple competitions, with the 21-year-old already missing four consecutive fixtures against Huddersfield, Burnley, AS Monaco, and Brentford prior to the international break.

His versatility, capable of operating both centrally and on the right side of defence, has made him a valuable tactical tool for Pep Guardiola, particularly amid the club’s ongoing rotation and injury concerns across the backline.

Having joined City in January, Khusanov quickly earned a reputation within the squad for his composure and adaptability – qualities that impressed Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff over the last few weeks and months, with the City boss seeing the defender as a key development project for his side’s long-term future.

But currently, according to the information of journalist Davron Fayziev, Abdukodir Khusanov’s return to Manchester City action may be delayed by another week.

As such, the report indicates that the versatile Uzbekistan international defender will not be available for selection by Pep Guardiola when City welcome Everton to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The news comes as Manchester City continue to navigate a demanding fixture schedule, with Pep Guardiola managing multiple fitness concerns across his squad. While Khusanov’s setback is not believed to be serious, the club are exercising caution to avoid aggravating the issue.

Should his recovery now progress as planned, Khusanov could return to contention for City’s next league fixture away to Aston Villa, potentially offering much-needed depth in defensive areas as Pep Guardiola seeks stability amid ongoing squad rotation.

Supporters will be eager to see Khusanov return to action in the coming days, with his performances before the setback hinting at significant long-term potential, and possibly an answer to lingering right-back concerns.