“For many, many years” – Pep Guardiola showers praise on Manchester City defender

Pep Guardiola has once again underlined his admiration for Abdukodir Khusanov, hailing the young defender’s attitude, adaptability, and long-term potential following a run of impressive performances for Manchester City.

The Uzbekistan international has been thrust into regular first-team action after injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol earlier this month, forcing Guardiola into defensive reshuffles during a demanding period of the campaign.

Khusanov steps up amid defensive crisis

Khusanov has featured consistently since City’s central defensive options were depleted in the 1-1 draw against Chelsea, with academy graduate Max Alleyne also recalled from his loan spell at Watford to bolster numbers.

Despite City enduring a sluggish start to 2026—winning just three of their last eight matches in all competitions—the 21-year-old has emerged as one of the brighter positives, culminating in a composed display during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Wolves.

Partnership with Marc Guehi impresses

The recent arrival of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace has eased Guardiola’s defensive concerns, and the England international partnered Khusanov on his Manchester City debut at the Etihad Stadium.

The pairing delivered a clean sheet, with Khusanov’s physicality, positional awareness, and calm distribution drawing praise both internally and externally.

Guardiola hails mentality and upbringing

Speaking in a recent media conference, Guardiola made clear his satisfaction with Khusanov’s progress during his first year in England since arriving from RC Lens in January 2025.

“Just read the media, how they praised Khusanov! They’re right! He’s top! We don’t have complaints. We’re really pleased,” Guardiola said.

The City manager went on to highlight the defender’s professionalism during periods without minutes.

“Especially he’s top because after Arsenal (in September 2025), a month without playing, and you cannot imagine how he behaved in training, locker room – that defines Khusanov.”

“A central defender for many, many years”

Guardiola also credited Khusanov’s background and adaptability for his smooth transition into Premier League football.

“I’m pretty sure his education from mum and dad, Uzbekistan, a few months in France, after he came here, immediately to Man City in the Premier League – and it’s not easy this change,” Guardiola explained.

“But he listened, he learned, and of course his condition is exceptional.

“The club will have a central defender for many, many years, and at a top, top level. What he will become? It depends on him, nothing else.”

Versatility adds further value

Beyond his role at centre-back, Khusanov’s ability to operate at right-back has already been utilised by Guardiola, adding tactical flexibility during a period of heavy fixture congestion.

As Manchester City continue to compete for silverware on four fronts, the 21-year-old’s importance is only set to grow.

Conclusion

Abdukodir Khusanov’s rise has come at a critical moment for Manchester City, and Pep Guardiola’s glowing assessment underlines the club’s belief in his long-term future. With maturity beyond his years, positional versatility, and an elite mentality, Khusanov is increasingly viewed as a cornerstone of City’s defence for seasons to come—starting with another expected key role against Galatasaray in the Champions League.

FAQ

• Who is Abdukodir Khusanov?
  Khusanov is a 21-year-old Uzbekistan international defender who joined Manchester City from RC Lens in January 2025.
• Why has Khusanov been playing regularly?
  Injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol have opened up opportunities in City’s defence.
• What did Pep Guardiola say about Khusanov?
  Guardiola praised his attitude, training behaviour, adaptability, and said City have a top-level central defender “for many, many years.”
• Can Khusanov play multiple positions?
  Yes, in addition to centre-back, he has also been used at right-back by Guardiola.
• Is Khusanov expected to start against Galatasaray?
  Following his clean-sheet performance against Wolves, he is expected to retain his starting place in the Champions League clash.