The impact made by two Manchester City defenders has been immense
The impact made by two Manchester City defenders has been immense Early in 2026, Manchester City were faced with a defensive crisis. Josko Gvardiol had suffered a right tibial fracture, Ruben Dias was sidelined with a hamstring injury, and John Stones and Nathan Ake were battling constant injury issues. Abdukodir Khusanov stepped up in City’s hour of need, as did Max Alleyne.
The January signing of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace solidified City’s defence, and Pep Guardiola’s side has powered on since that moment. More recently, Marc Guehi and Abdukodir Khusanov have formed a solid defensive partnership for Pep Guardiola’s side, and their impressive displays together have drawn well-deserved praise from Pep Guardiola. Manchester City look to have found their ideal centre-back partnership for the remainder of this season.
Typically, as Manchester City enter a critical stage of the season, Pep Guardiola settles on his preferred starting eleven. That helps City build momentum and continuity in their play, which has been evident in Manchester City’s past four matches. City have beaten Arsenal twice, Liverpool, and Chelsea and have played their best football during the 2025-26 season.
A key component of Manchester City’s play in their four impressive wins has been the centre-back pairing of Abdukodir Khusanov and Marc Guehi. Guehi and Khusanov have formed almost the ideal centre-back pairing for Manchester City. In Khusanov, City have a centre-back blessed with tremendous pace and strength.
Khusanov’s ability to track back at speed is a key attribute to City’s defensive system. Marc Guehi adds stability, leadership, and poise in possession to Pep Guardiola’s side. When the pair play together, their games complement each other perfectly.