Pep Guardiola has issued a fresh update on Abdukodir Khusanov’s ongoing pursuit of fluently speaking and understanding the English language at Manchester City.
The Uzbekistan international has quickly become one of the most talked-about figures in Pep Guardiola’s squad, particularly after his latest standout display during the dramatic 1-2 comeback victory over Liverpool at Anfield.
In what was his first experience of such an occasion on Merseyside, Khusanov produced a composed and physically dominant performance against elite attacking talent in a display that came despite a worrying moment when he was forced off following a collision with Gianluigi Donnarumma during a crucial defensive action.
Manager Pep Guardiola praised the centre-back after the match, highlighting the scale of the challenge he faced in one of the Premier League’s most intense environments.
Abdukodir Khusanov’s rapid rise is also reflective of the broader transition taking place within the squad, as the emergence of younger talents such as the defender central to a long-term rebuild.
Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League clash against Fulham on Wednesday, and off the back of another stellar showing from Abdukodir Khusanov during the 1-2 win at Liverpool, Guardiola was asked on the defender’s progress in adapting to English football.
“I admit, he doesn’t speak like William Shakespeare. But he’s getting better, and getting better,” the Catalan told reporters at the City Football Academy.
He continued, “He understands what we want, what we say, and every time he’s better and better. He’s so intelligent! He always takes good decisions!”
But as for Pep Guardiola’s own ability to converse with Khusanov in the player’s native language, the Catalan coach said, “My Uzbek? Not even one word!”
“Man City have a player and a central defender for many, many years,” he concluded on the 21-year-old.
Abdukodir Khusanov’s growing importance could have immediate consequences for Manchester City’s defensive plans, as the likes of Ruben Dias and John Stones continue to find a way back into the side amid Marc Guehi’s presence and competition from Nathan Ake.
Pep Guardiola has already insisted the aforementioned England international will be a long-term figure at the club, and in the short term, players like Khusanov and Guehi may be asked to shoulder additional responsibility.
With a crucial Premier League fixture against Fulham next and the title race still alive after the win at Anfield, Pep Guardiola will be hoping his young defender’s integration continues smoothly.
