WATCH | Guardiola paid 12 million for him and Khusanov made a terrible mistake on debut

The Uzbek defender made his presentation but experienced a real nightmare. He arrived a few days ago as a reinforcement from Lens and coach Pep Guardiola, who paid 12 million, sent him to start the match against Chelsea and made a mistake that cost a goal.

In a significant move that has caught the attention of European football, Uzbek defender Khusan Khusanov has completed a high-profile transfer from French club RC Lens to Manchester City for a reported fee of £12 million. The 21-year-old center-back’s move to the Premier League champions marks an exciting new chapter in his career, as he steps up to one of the most successful clubs in world football. Khusanov’s arrival at the Etihad Stadium has generated significant interest, with fans and pundits alike eager to see how he will adapt to one of the most competitive leagues in the world.

Khusanov’s rise to prominence has been rapid, with the young defender’s performances at Lens earning him widespread recognition. Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Khusanov started his professional career at his home club, PFC Navbahor Namangan, before moving to the French league in 2021. His move to Lens was initially seen as a step forward in his development, and he quickly proved himself to be one of the brightest young defensive talents in Ligue 1. In just two seasons at the club, he cemented his place as a regular starter in the heart of the defense, making crucial contributions to the team’s success in both domestic and European competitions.

At Lens, Khusanov quickly gained a reputation as a composed and physical center-back with excellent technical abilities. Standing at 6’3”, his aerial dominance and physical presence in the box made him a key figure during set-piece situations. His commanding performances in defense, paired with his ability to read the game, allowed him to consistently disrupt opposition attacks. Khusanov’s composure on the ball is another standout feature of his game. His ability to play out from the back and distribute passes accurately has been a key attribute, especially in modern football, where central defenders are expected to be comfortable with possession and play a role in building attacks.

Khusanov’s performances did not go unnoticed, and it wasn’t long before top clubs across Europe began taking interest in him. Manchester City, known for their ability to scout young talent from around the world, recognized the potential of Khusanov and made their move to secure his signature. The £12 million transfer fee, which could rise with add-ons, represents a significant investment in the Uzbek defender’s potential and a statement of intent by Manchester City. The move also highlights the club's commitment to strengthening their defensive options as they look to maintain their dominance in English football and Europe.

The move to Manchester City is a major step for Khusanov, who now finds himself playing under one of the best managers in the world, Pep Guardiola. City’s tactical system, built on fluid possession and a high defensive line, will provide Khusanov with the perfect platform to develop his game further. Guardiola’s coaching style is renowned for nurturing young players and honing their skills, and Khusanov will undoubtedly benefit from the chance to learn from the Catalan mastermind. City’s emphasis on technical football and ball-playing defenders aligns with Khusanov’s strengths, and he could prove to be an ideal fit for the system that Guardiola has perfected.

One of the key factors in Khusanov’s potential success at Manchester City is his adaptability. While he has played predominantly as a central defender, his ability to operate in a variety of roles in defense – including at full-back and in a defensive midfield position when necessary – gives Guardiola the flexibility to utilize him in different tactical setups. His adaptability to different playing styles and positions will make him a valuable asset in a squad that competes on multiple fronts, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League.

Khusanov’s arrival also strengthens Manchester City’s defensive depth. The club already boasts an impressive array of central defenders, including Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji, and Khusanov adds further competition for places in the starting XI. His signing also represents a longer-term investment in the future of the club’s defense, with the 21-year-old being seen as one of the future leaders of the backline. The addition of Khusanov ensures that City will have depth and quality in defense for years to come, particularly with the possibility of squad rotations during a demanding season.

Off the pitch, Khusanov is known for his professionalism, maturity, and determination to improve. Despite his relatively young age, he has already developed a strong mentality, and his focus on continually progressing as a player has been a key part of his rise through the ranks in Uzbekistan and France. His time at Lens was marked by consistent performances, and his ability to handle pressure situations with composure is something that will serve him well at Manchester City.

Internationally, Khusanov has been an important figure for the Uzbekistan national team, earning caps and making vital contributions in World Cup and Asian Cup qualifying matches. His experience at the international level has further honed his defensive capabilities and helped him develop the mental toughness needed to succeed in top-flight football. Khusanov’s commitment to representing his country while also competing at the highest level with Manchester City highlights his professionalism and ambition.

In conclusion, Khusan Khusanov’s move to Manchester City for £12 million marks a significant step forward in his career and showcases his potential as one of the most promising young defenders in European football. His physicality, technical skills, and ability to read the game make him an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s system, and his versatility will provide Manchester City with valuable depth in defense. With a strong work ethic and the opportunity to develop under one of the best managers in the world, Khusanov’s future at City looks bright, and he has the potential to become a key figure in the club’s defense for years to come.