Abdukodir Khusanov's career (21) has changed dimension in a few months. Recruited this winter by Manchester City this winter in exchange for € 50 million, the Uzbek defender left the RC Lens to reach the Champions of England. He and the Brazilian Vitor Reis were targeted by Cityzens who are anxious to prepare for the future. Immediately launched in the deep end by Pep Guardiola, the former Artesian had a first complicated with a dumpling committed against Chelsea. Subsequently, Khusanov was able to demonstrate that he was indeed a promising young defender.
Last February, we relationships with you that the neo Mancunian had made everyone agree, despite the very complicated season of City in the Premier League as well as in the Champions League (elimination from the dams). At the end of March, Pep Guardiola confirmed these good prints on the club's official website. “We did not expect him to play so many matches, but the situation of the rearguard throughout the season makes it play a lot of matches. It has a special quality. Really special. He is very fast and he brings his passion. His face does not always show it, but he is present in many actions. We are delighted with the short time spent in training and everything that has happened. »»
The choice O'Reilly has changed everything
Since then, the wind has somewhat turned for Uzbek. Following the choice of Pep Guardiola to use Nico O'Reilly as a left side – a paying choice since the English marked in the last two City games – this caused the shift of Josko Gvardiol in the axis, alongside Ruben Dias. It has now been three games in a row (against Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Everton) that Khusanov does not take off from the sidelines. What to fear a end of the season without too much playing time for the ex-Lensois? Fifth in the Premier League ranking five days before the term, City may have found the formula that makes it more solid in defense (2 goals conceded in 4 games).
Obliged to win a place in C1, Guardiola will undoubtedly be tempted not to touch anything. While waiting to see if this trend will be confirmed this evening against Aston Villa, the Spaniard clearly said that he appreciated being able to count on a central hinge Gvardiol-Dias. “I like it in this position (speaking of Gvardiol, editor's note). I like it in this position, especially when it comes to building on the left. It is very fast in the back of the attackers. Ruben and he talk to each other a lot and they form a very good duo. It's an option. I don't think the club needs central defenders, we have a lot and we bought two young people. It is important to have a player who can play this position and at the left back post. »» After being able to enjoy a substantial playing time as soon as he arrived in England, Abdukodir Khusanov is now learning patience.
