Abdukodir Khusanov reflects on horror Chelsea debut and sensational Manchester City rise since | OneFootball

Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov has opened up on his start to life at the Etihad Stadium and reflected on a difficult debut against Chelsea in January 2025.

The 21-year-old arrived in Manchester as an emergency reinforcement amidst a defensive crisis at the club and was thrown straight into action, making a torrid start to his full debut against Chelsea before recovering to produce an assured display as City ran out 3-1 winners at the Etihad Stadium.

Khusanov has since gone on to establish himself as a key figure in Manchester City‘s defensive plans, earning widespread praise from Guardiola and assistant coach Pep Lijnders for his composure, athleticism and rapid adaptation to life in the Premier League.

Guardiola has spoken glowingly about the Uzbekistan international on several occasions, insisting the club will have a top-level central defender for ‘many, many years’ – and Khusanov’s own words in the April issue of the official Manchester City magazine suggest the feeling is very much mutual.

Pep spent a lot of individual time with me, says Khusanov

Reflecting on his Chelsea debut, in which he gave away a goal inside the opening three minutes before being hauled off at half-time, Khusanov was measured in his assessment of what went wrong.

“I stayed calm,” he said. “Before that match (against Chelsea), I hadn’t played for over a month and had only one training session with the team, so that may have had an impact.”

The 21-year-old was quick to credit Guardiola for the support he received in the weeks and months that followed. “I’m very grateful to Pep,” the defender added.

“He spent a lot of individual time with me, explaining every detail of the game. We’re working step by step – he doesn’t rush me and understands that I need time.”

Khusanov: My dream is UCL win with Man City

On his time at the Etihad Stadium more broadly, Khusanov was effusive in his praise for the club and its supporters – and set out the ambition that drives him each day.

“I’m proud to play for this club,” he said. “City have incredible fans who support us both at home and away in big numbers. Wearing this shirt is a huge responsibility.

“Their support, of course, means a lot to us and I’d like to personally thank them; even in difficult moments, they are there. We truly appreciate it. We want to win even more trophies for them. And of course, my dream is for us to win the Champions League.”

Khusanov joined Manchester City from RC Lens for £33.5 million 15 months ago and has made over 30 appearances in all competitions since, receiving the backing of Lijnders after a particularly impressive display in the 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final win over Liverpool at the weekend.

He is contracted at the club until the summer of 2029 and with City understood to be eyeing a new and improved deal for the defender in the coming weeks, his long-term future in Manchester looks increasingly secure.