A young Manchester City centre-back hasn’t been forgotten his time will come | OneFootball

One player who impressed after arriving at Manchester City during the January transfer window was young centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov. The young defender made an instant impact for Pep Guardiola’s side after a tough debut against Chelsea. He has already shown during his time at the club that he has all of the attributes required to develop into a quality first-team player for Manchester City.

But recently Khusanov hasn’t played as Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol have formed a strong partnership at the heart of City’s defence. Nico O’Reilly’s impressive form at left-back has also seen Khusanov not play of late. His last start for Manchester City came during their 2-1 FA Cup quarter-final win over Bournemouth. But Abdukodir Khusanov hasn’t been forgotten his time will come as a Manchester City player.

Khusanov has made 9 appearances for Manchester City since arriving at the club from Lens. In those appearances, his speed, strength and defensive acumen stood out. His ability on the ball also improved quickly which showed why City were so keen to sign him. Looking ahead to next season the Uzbekistan international will be an important part of Pep Guardiola’s squad for next season.

But over recent weeks Pep Guardiola has found the right formula for his team. With Nico O’Reilly at left-back and Josko Gvardiol at centre-back, his lineup has more balance. Having those two players in those positions allows Manchester City to flood the centre of the pitch so to speak. For now, Abdukodir Khusanov has been on the bench in recent matches. But he will get his time as a City player. It may not come until next season or at the FIFA Club World Cup.

Summary.

Abdukodir Khusanov is only 21. He has plenty of time ahead of him to make an impact as a City player. He’s already shown what he adds to Pep Guardiola’s squad. But he hasn’t been forgotten by Pep Guardiola. His time will come. For now, Pep Guardiola has found another solution to City’s issues that were prevalent this season. Khusanov has all the makings of an important player for Pep Guardiola’s side. That impact will come in time from the impressive young centre-back.