Uzbekistan international Abdukodir Khusanov has officially signed with Manchester City in a deal worth €40 million (£33.8m), with additional performance-based bonuses. The 20-year-old defender joins from Ligue 1 side RC Lens on a four-and-a-half-year contract, becoming the first player from Uzbekistan to join a Premier League club.
Khusanov, who will don the number 45 jersey at City, expressed his excitement about the move. “Joining Manchester City is a dream come true,” he said. “I’ve admired this club for years and am thrilled to now be a part of it. The squad is packed with world-class players, and I can’t wait to meet my new teammates and compete alongside them.
“Pep Guardiola is a legendary coach, and the opportunity to work under his guidance is incredible. I’m looking forward to improving my game and taking on this new challenge. This is a proud moment for me and my family.”
City’s Vision for Khusanov
Manchester City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, praised the signing, emphasizing Khusanov’s potential. “We’re delighted to welcome Abdukodir to Manchester City. At just 20 years old, he already shows remarkable intelligence on the pitch, combined with strength, aggression, and exceptional pace,” he said.
“Under Pep’s leadership, we’re confident he will develop into an even better player. His determination to improve is clear, and we’re excited to see him grow as part of our squad. This signing aligns with our commitment to maintaining one of Europe’s top teams.”
A Promising Career Path
Khusanov’s journey to the Premier League began with Belarusian side Energetik-BGU, where he launched his professional career. His performances earned him a move to Ligue 1 in 2023, where he featured in 31 matches for RC Lens.
The young defender has also represented Uzbekistan on the international stage, earning 18 caps for his country. His deal with Manchester City runs until the summer of 2029, marking the next chapter in his promising career.
