Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov has signed a new five-year contract extension running until 2031. The 22-year-old Uzbekistan international secured the long-term deal following a standout domestic cup double campaign and a World Cup debut, cementing his role as a key fixture in the club’s defensive line.
Securing the Future at the Etihad
Manchester City have moved decisively to secure their defensive core, confirming that Abdukodir Khusanov has signed a new five-year contract keeping him at the club until 2031. The 22-year-old center-back joined the Premier League giants in January 2025 from Lens and has quickly transformed into a fan favourite at the Etihad, winning Cityzens over with his passion, pace and hunger to help the team win. At just 22 years old, he has continued to grow in confidence and technical ability and as a result, he has become a key part of City’s defensive line.
The announcement comes amid a wider wave of contract business at the Etihad Stadium. Earlier in the week, City announced Phil Foden’s contract extension, with the new deal keeping the England international at the Etihad Stadium until 2030. Foden is one of the best talents to come out of the club’s academy. He endured a difficult 2025-26 campaign and missed out on a place in England’s World Cup squad, but City clearly rate his talent very highly as shown by their decision to hand him a new contract. Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Manchester City have moved to tie down three key players to new contracts: Josko Gvardiol, Jeremy Doku, and Khusanov. Romano noted that Josko Gvardiol has already signed a new long-term deal at Manchester City, Jeremy Doku has approved all documents over a new deal until 2031, and Khusanov is signing a new five-year contract.
Overcoming Early Hurdles to Claim a Regular Spot
Khusanov’s path to a long-term extension required navigating a steep adaptation curve. The 22-year-old endured a shaky debut for City, as he struggled in his first Premier League match against Chelsea. Additionally, Khusanov suffered an ankle injury last September that kept him out for six Premier League games.
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However, he managed to regain his spot in the team over Christmas to become a regular starter following Ruben Dias’ injury. He became a mainstay in the defence during the second half of the season after injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol. By the end of the campaign, Khusanov was Pep Guardiola’s preferred partner for Marc Guehi at the heart of defence.
That resilience paid dividends during an intense domestic campaign. Khusanov made 47 appearances for City since joining in January 2025, and last season he amassed 37 appearances across all competitions while helping the club to a domestic cup double in 2025/26, winning the FA Cup and League Cup trophies.
Praise From the Club Hierarchy
Club officials have made no secret of their admiration for the young defender’s rapid ascent. Director of football Hugo Viana pointed directly to Khusanov’s physical and technical assets when discussing the rationale behind the long-term commitment.
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“We’ve been really pleased and impressed by Abdukodir’s development since he arrived in England. We’re seeing him grow into a brilliant young man and an outstanding defender – but we know this is only the beginning. His physical and technical abilities are top, he has all the assets needed to be a world-class centre-back.”
Hugo Viana, Director of Football
Viana emphasized that at just 22, his best years are all in front of him and his potential to get even better is clear for all to see, expressing happiness that he has signed a new contract at City so he can be a big part of Enzo’s plans in the years to come.
Looking Ahead Under Enzo Maresca
Reflecting on his new agreement, Khusanov expressed gratitude for the backing he has received from supporters since arriving in Manchester. He also acknowledged the immediate professional hurdle awaiting him under the coaching staff.
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“This is a great day for me and my family – I am really happy to extend my stay at City. I’ve enjoyed every minute since I arrived in Manchester and I feel I am growing and learning a lot as a player. I have a new challenge now, which is to impress Enzo Maresca and his staff and ensure I am in his team regularly. I am determined to do that. Thank you to the City fans for all of your support. It has been really important as I’ve settled in England and the Premier League. Now I am only looking forward. I’m ready to do everything I can to help this club be as a successful as possible.”
OFFICIAL: ABDUKODIR KHUSANOV SIGNS FOR MAN CITY | REACTION
Abdukodir Khusanov, Manchester City Defender
Beyond his club commitments, Khusanov also enjoyed a standout 2025/26 season that culminated in him making his World Cup debut. The Uzbekistan international featured in all three group stage matches at World Cup 2026 as his nation failed to advance and crashed out from their group.
With his domestic future secured for the next five years, the young defender returns to Manchester ready to do everything he can to help the club be as successful as possible.
