Abdukodir Khusanov has agreed a fresh five-year contract, tying him to the Etihad until 2031. The Uzbekistan international returns from a brief World Cup stint in North America with a new manager to impress and a point to prove.
City confirmed the extension on Tuesday, rewarding a defender who, since arriving from RC Lens in January 2025, has drawn comparisons to some of the finest centre-backs to have worn the shirt in recent memory. Khusanov became the first Uzbek to play in the Premier League and, across what proved to be a transitional season under Pep Guardiola, established himself as a key component of the backline.
Now comes the next step: convincing Enzo Maresca.
“I’m really happy to extend my stay at City. I have a new challenge now to impress Enzo Maresca and his staff and ensure I am in his team regularly. Thank you to the fans for all your support.”
Hugo Viana, the club's sporting director, said City have been encouraged by Khusanov's trajectory. His physical and technical abilities are top, he has all the assets needed to be a world-class centre-back, Viana said. At just 22, his best years are all in front of him.
The timing is deliberate. With Bernardo Silva and John Stones having left this summer, City are refreshing the spine. Khusanov joins Vitor Reis as young centre-backs committed to the Etihad project for the foreseeable future — a clear signal that the club sees its long-term defensive core in players who will grow into the role rather than inherit it ready-made.
Khusanov's Uzbekistan side exited the World Cup at the group stage, allowing him to return for pre-season earlier than some. He will get a chance to bed in under Maresca before the season starts on 23 August.