Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov has picked up an injury during the Premier League clash with Brighton on August 31. Manchester City withdrew the 21-year-old late in the game, and his exit now casts doubts for both club and country.
Diagnosis and recovery timeline
Reports from Uzbekistan’s Football Association confirm it is a minor calf muscle strain, despite early suggestions of a possible knee issue. Khusanov was tested following the match, and the scans revealed only mild muscle pain. He is likely to be ruled out for a couple of weeks, with medical staff confident of a full recovery following the international break.
This rules him out of the upcoming CAFA Nations Cup, a blow for Uzbekistan’s defensive setup. Pep Guardiola explained after the Brighton defeat that the defender’s pace is crucial in stopping quick counters. He admitted Khusanov’s early exit left City more vulnerable in the closing stages. Brighton scored late to seal a 2-1 win.
Impact on Manchester City
Manchester City must now test their defensive depth. John Stones and Ruben Dias are the primary choices, and Josko Gvardiol can also fill in at central defender. But Khusanov’s pace and one-one-one defending have made him an invaluable playing in Guardiola’s system already. His absence should not derail City’s season but his presence in high-octane matches is still important. Crucially, he could feature in training just days before the Manchester city derby on September 14, offering Guardiola a significant lift.
Author’s opinion
The injury is more of an interruption than a major setback. Two weeks is manageable, and the international break reduces the number of games missed. While Uzbekistan will feel disappointed to lose him for the CAFA Nations Cup, City will feel relieved the injury is not long-term. Abdukodir Khusanov has impressed since arriving, and this pause should only sharpen his hunger. Expect him to return with more intensity, ready to reclaim his spot and continue his growth at the top level.
