Man City signs Lens defender Khusanov in a £33.6m deal as Guardiola rebuilds after setbacks

Man City signs Khusanov: The Premier League champions have secured the signing of 20-year-old centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens on a four-and-a-half-year deal worth £33.6m plus add-ons. The Uzbek international will stay at the Etihad Stadium until 2029.

Khusanov’s move marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first player from Uzbekistan to join the Premier League. Reflecting on his transfer, the defender expressed excitement about joining one of football’s elite squads under Pep Guardiola. “This squad is full of the best players in the world, and I can’t wait to meet them and play alongside them,” Khusanov said. “Of course, Pep Guardiola is one of the greatest coaches ever, and I’m so excited to learn from him and improve my game even more.”

Khusanov’s meteoric rise began just 18 months ago when Lens signed him from Belarusian club Energetik-BGU for a mere £84,000. Since then, he has evolved into one of Ligue 1’s standout young defenders, making 16 appearances this season and scoring his first goal in a French Cup match against Paris Saint-Germain. His consistent performances and aggressive style have earned him 18 caps for Uzbekistan, cementing his reputation as a ‘tank’ on the pitch.

City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, praised Khusanov’s qualities, calling him “very intelligent, as well as being strong, aggressive, and extremely quick.” The signing reflects Guardiola’s intent to bolster his squad as City navigate a challenging season. Currently fourth in the Premier League table and trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points, the defending champions are eager to regain their dominance.

This signing comes after City displayed their clinical side in a 6-0 demolition of Ipswich Town at the weekend, their most emphatic Premier League win of the season. However, Guardiola’s men face a crucial test on Wednesday when they travel to Paris to take on PSG in the Champions League. A win is essential to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive, and Khusanov’s addition to the squad will undoubtedly strengthen their defensive options in future fixtures.

For City fans, Khusanov’s signing signals Guardiola’s determination to rebuild and adapt in a season full of surprises. The young defender’s reputation as a relentless and fearless player has already sparked excitement among supporters eager to see how he will fit into City’s backline.

As the Premier League welcomes its first Uzbek player, all eyes will be on Khusanov to see if he can live up to the expectations and make his mark in one of the most competitive football leagues in the world.