Abdukodir Khusanov 45 of Manchester City ahead of the EFL Cup match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, London, UK on 22 March 2026
Abdukodir Khusanov 45 of Manchester City ahead of the EFL Cup match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, London, UK on 22 March 2026
The 23-year-old has slotted seamlessly into the backline whenever called upon by Enzo Maresca, but there is plenty of competition for starts now.
Marc Guehi and Ruben Dias are the first-choice centre-back partnership, meaning that Khusanov often has to feature at right-back to get minutes.
Nonetheless, even out of position, the Uzbekistan international adds some much-needed stability to the team in and out of possession.
He has come a long way since his Man City debut in January 2025, being substituted before the hour-mark after giving away a goal and being carded.
That is often used as a stick to beat him with by Premier League pundits, but at the Etihad Stadium, fans are begging for him to be given more minutes.
Chelsea target move for Abdukodir Khusanov
Khusanov is, undoubtedly, one of the strongest players in Maresca's squad. His talent is often overshadowed by the team's incredible attackers.
Of course, the defender still has his weaknesses and can go into some challenges far too recklessly, but he deserves his spot at the Etihad.
However, it has emerged that Khusanov is on Chelsea's radar ahead of the January window, with Xabi Alonso wanting to sure up his defence.
It is understood that the Citizens would prefer a loan move than a permanent deal in the coming months, but either would likely start a riot.
Understand Khusanov is highly appreciated by Chelsea. Player not pushing to leave City but #CFC eager to strengthen defence after shaky start @daiIybriefing https://t.co/9hYFfFGgCe
— Mark Brus (@MarkBrusCOS) September 24, 2026
Supporters are desperate to see more of the 23-year-old, but the club's stance would suggest that a move to Stamford Bridge isn't totally ruled out.
While Man City are currently top of the Premier League, Maresca cannot afford to have fans turn against him this early in his tenure.
Who else could leave Man City in January?
Khusanov is not the only one with a question mark hanging over his future, with several players struggling for minutes at the Etihad.
Vitor Reis has only been given 91 minutes in 2026-27, while Rico Lewis is also struggling to break into the lineup.
Man City kept hold of the 21-year-old during the summer, but there is every chance that Nottingham Forest could reignite their interest.
Maresca is unlikely to be done with his squad rebuild just yet, with plenty areas of the team that need addressing over the coming windows.