The growth of a Manchester City defender is accelerating with every match
The growth of a Manchester City defender is accelerating with every match The rise of Abdukodir Khusanov in 2026 has been one of the more pleasing stories concerning Manchester City. Khusanov is a cult hero among City fans as his playing style is a throwback to centre-backs of yesteryear, and his personality is so laid-back. The Uzbekistan international is rarely flustered on the pitch, and his powerful challenges defy his personality, as Khusanov seems to be such a non-fussed character.
As a player, Khusanov continues to take giant strides as an overall player, and that stood out as Manchester City beat Liverpool 4-0 in their FA Cup quarter-final at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Abdukodir Khusanov is growing as a ball-playing defender which stood out as Manchester City beat Liverpool. The strengths of Abdukodir Khusanov as a defender are well-known and well-established.
His pace, strength, and timing of a challenge form the backbone of his game. Those attributes stood out once again against Liverpool on Saturday. One instance early in the first half when Khusanov caught up to Mo Salah, when the Egyptian international was played clean through by a long ball from Liverpool keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, stood out.
This side of Khusanov’s game is already known by many. Another side of Khusanov’s game caught the eye against Arne Slot’s side at the Etihad, and it shows how quickly he is growing as an all-around player. In possession, Abdukodir Khusanov was assured and composed when required.
He wasn’t flustered when Liverpool pressed Manchester City as they played out from the back. Khusanov’s passing game was exceptional on Saturday. He also knew when to drive into midfield in possession when there were no other options to use.