ABDUKODIR KHUSANOV, Manchester City’s powerhouse No.45, has gone from laughing stock to one of the Premier League’s most feared defenders in little over a year.
He’s come full circle from his nightmare debut, outmuscled by Nicolas Jackson, then fluffing a header that gifted Chelsea a goal as Noni Madueke pounced.
Abdukodir Khusanov has put a disappointing debut behind him to become a real star of the Man City team Credit: Alamy
The Uzbek’s form is one of the reasons many believe City would beat Arsenal this weekend Credit: Alamy
That night, he looked lost, alone and overwhelmed.
Even Gary Neville, on commentary duty, admitted he felt for the youngster.
He said: “It’s a moment when you feel like crying for the lad… it’s a nightmare for him.”
At the time, it didn’t look like the was money well spent.
And it got worse.
Those early errors, mixed with City’s own struggles as they became a pale imitation of themselves, saw Pep Guardiola take him out of the firing line.
He played just five more Premier League games that season.
But tough times don’t last, tough players do.
And has proven exactly that.
Now, as City go full throttle to rediscover their best form, the Uzbek star has risen right to the top.
This weekend, City host in a potential title decider, a real six-pointer.
A win for the Gunners and they’ll have one hand on the trophy.
But if Khusanov produces another commanding display and City win, suddenly, it’s game on.
To understand just how far he’s come, you have to go back to where it all started.
was already making waves back home long before Europe came calling.
He helped Uzbekistan’s Under-23s reach the Asian Cup final and qualify for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
They even pushed Spain all the way in the group stage, only narrowly losing.
Back then, those in the know were already tipping him for the top.
His Olympic team-mate Oston Urunov told SunSport: “I think we’re just seeing the start of a machine.
“We always knew once he got the chance, the world would hear about him.
Lens signed him for only £84,000 in one of the steals of the decade Credit: Getty
He quickly became an instant star in French football before heading to the Premier League Credit: Rex
“For us in Uzbekistan, it’s no surprise, we’re just proud he’s doing it at this level.”
His European journey began in unlikely fashion, a move to Belarusian side Energetik–BGU after being spotted playing for Bunyodkor.
Team-mate Isaac Gyamfi recalls: “When he arrived, he was very shy, barely spoke.
“But once he settled, he was easily one of the best players in the team.
“After a few months, we all knew he wouldn’t be here long.”
They were right.
Former Lens scout Baptiste Favier, now at struck gold with Khusanov.
He was watching an clash between Argentina and Uzbekistan, he had tuned in to scout striker Alejo Veliz who Tottenham would later sign.
But instead of Veliz, one player stole the show. Khusanov.
Flying into tackles. Lightning quick. Fearless.
Favier immediately called Lens sporting director Florent Ghisolfi who answered positively and turned on his television to also watch him.
Together they knew they’d found something special.
A source told SunSport: “They said they hadn’t seen an Asian defender like him, he had everything.
“So they moved quickly.”
Lens snapped him up for just €100,000, around £84,000.
A bargain that now looks ridiculous.
Other clubs soon came calling, but the deal was already done and sent to FIFA to protect asset.
Back home people believe Khusanov’s ability will open more doors for many like him Credit: Getty
He had a debut to forget and Pep Guardiola had to take him out of the team for a while Credit: PA
Initially placed in the B team, fate soon intervened. injury opened the door, and Khusanov burst through it.
Then Lens boss Will Still didn’t hesitate. He threw him straight into the first team.
And Khusanov never looked back.
Still later said to DAZN: “Kodir is a war machine.
“He’s fast, powerful, and reads the game brilliantly. On the ball, he’s very clean.”
Fast forward to now, and the transformation is staggering. From that horror show at to becoming a defensive rock at City.
Some have even compared him to . Ironically, he arrived just days before Walker’s move to AC Milan.
Pep Guardiola barely knew him at first. But director Txiki Begiristain was all-in.
SunSports understand he personally pushed the deal through, even travelling to Lens with super-agent to get it done.
And now that faith is paying off.
Khusanov has become a key figure in Guardiola’s rebuild but he’s also carrying the weight of his country, as there is a belief that strong performances from him would open more doors for Uzbekistan football.
His been a symbol of resilience, grit and belief. The only question left is simple.
How far can he go?
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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