To truly grasp the story of Abdukodir Khusanov is to witness a divine response to the silent prayers of football fans from the uncharted, lonely footballing world of Uzbekistan. For decades, the global stage seemed to ignore this corner of the world, a place so unknown that most football enthusiasts couldn’t even point it out on a map. Yet, out of this obscurity emerged a defender whose journey feels like destiny itself, a story that echoes beyond the pitch, inspiring hope for a nation longing to be seen.
A Divine Defender Chosen by the Football Gods: Abdukodir Khusanov’s Path from Uzbekistan to the Global Stage. Credit: Instagram/abdukodir_khusanov_
Abdukodir’s rise isn’t just about the technical brilliance he displays on the field. It’s a tale deeply rooted in his origins, shaped by the struggles and dreams of a young boy who dared to dream big in a country where football greatness was an unimaginable ambition. After delving deep into his background, we are honoured to share the story of a player many believe isn’t just raw talent but a beacon of promise to his country. A defender handpicked by the football gods, destined to unlock the doors of Uzbekistan to the beautiful game.
The Birth of a Football Legacy: Abdukodir Khusanov’s Journey Begins with His Father’s Dreams:
To begin his story, Abdukodir Khusanov, lovingly nicknamed “the Train” or “Kodir,” was born as a destiny child. His full name is Abdukodir Khikmatovich Khusanov. Born on February 29, 2004, a rare and extraordinary day, the Defender entered the world in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, as the cherished son of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Khikmat Khoshimov.
For his father, Khikmat, a retired footballer, this moment was more than just welcoming a child. It was a sign, a spark of hope that his lifelong dream of transforming football in Uzbekistan might one day come true through his son.
Abdukodir was born into a footballing family. He comes from a household that knew the taste of local Uzbekistan football glory but yearned for the recognition of international fame.
At the heart of this family was Khikmat Khoshimov, Abdukodir’s Dad, who had once lifted the Uzbekistan Cup and triumphed in the Superliga. Yet, for Khikmat, those achievements weren’t enough. He dreamed of something greater, a legacy that could transcend the boundaries of the Asian continent.
When Abdukodir was born, Khikmat saw in him not just a son, but a vessel for those dreams, a chance to bring his vision of football greatness to life. From the very beginning, the plan was clear: to nurture Abdukodir into the player who could change the narrative of Uzbek football forever.
Meet Khikmat Khoshimov, Abdukodir Khusanov’s proud father, whose dreams of transforming Uzbek football continue to thrive through his son.
A Father’s Sacrifice: Hikmat Khoshimov’s Unwavering Belief in His Son’s Journey:
Hikmat Khoshimov, a former national team player and experienced coach, dedicated himself to his son’s development from the very beginning. He chose to become a coach, even while his playing career was still active. Hikmat made this decision not just to live his own dream but to help Abdukodir rise above and make a name for their family and their country. From an early age, Hikmat saw leadership in his son, a boy destined for greatness.
Abdukodir’s journey in football began at Bunyodkor, the very club where his father, Hikmat, had made his mark. As a young player, Abdukodir had the unique experience of seeing his father, who was in his late 30s, still coaching him at the academy. At the same time, his Dad played for the club’s senior team. Hikmat was, and still is, a beloved and respected figure in Uzbek football, admired for his dedication and passion.
Hikmat never wanted to be far from his son. So, he stayed at Bunyodkor, volunteering to coach at the academy and making sure that Abdukodir was enrolled there as well. For the foresighted athlete, It wasn’t just about football. It was about being there for his son, guiding him every step of the way, and taking full responsibility for shaping his future in the game.
Shielded His Son from Nepotism Rumors
Hikmat never wanted anyone to believe that Abdukodir’s success was because of his father’s influence. He didn’t want his son’s hard work to be overshadowed by rumours of favouritism. Knowing the public might question his motives, Hikmat made a courageous decision to protect his son. He gave Abdukodir a different surname, one that honoured his grandfather. It was a choice made to avoid the whispers of nepotism, allowing Abdukodir to focus solely on his talent and hard-earned progress.
Coach Hikmat was determined to make sure the world saw his son for who he truly was: an extraordinary footballer in his own right. He didn’t want Abdukodir to be seen as someone who was simply favoured or spoonfed because of his father’s influence. Hikmat wanted his son’s talent and hard work to shine through, proving that he was more than just the son of a Uzbekistan football legend.
Where Does Abdukodir Khusanov Come From? Discover Tashkent, His Roots:
Tashkent, the ancestral home of both Abdukodir Khusanov and his father Hikmat, is the heart of Uzbekistan. It’s the country’s capital and largest city, with over 3 million people calling it home as of 2024. Nestled in northeastern Uzbekistan, Tashkent lies close to the border with Kazakhstan.
During World War II, the city became a safe haven for refugees fleeing the violence in Europe. Thousands of Soviet citizens, including Jews, Armenians, and many others, sought refuge here. It’s believed that up to 200,000 people found shelter in Tashkent during this difficult time.
For those unfamiliar with Tashkent or Uzbekistan, here’s a map to help you out. And a little fact: Uzbekistan shares a border with Afghanistan, and it’s not an Arab country!
Discovering Abdukodir Khusanov’s Roots: A Google Map View of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, with a Glimpse of Surrounding Countries. Image Credit: MyTravelation and GoogleMap
Ethnicity:
Abdukodir Khusanov identifies himself as an Uzbek, which is a term for the largest ethnic group in Uzbekistan. His heritage reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Uzbekistan, which is shaped by a diverse history of influences from various Turkic, Persian, and Central Asian cultures. Where he comes from, Tashkent, has a vibrant mix of cultures. Tashkent is home to many different ethnic groups, such as Uzbeks, Russians, Tajiks, and Koreans, creating a unique blend of traditions and cuisine.
Privileged Footballing Roots: A Look Into His Background:
Abdukodir Khusanov wasn’t born into poverty; he comes from a family with a comfortable, above-average lifestyle. A picture of him as a child, perhaps, would tell the story of a young boy with dreams already shaped by the world he was born into, one full of aspirations for his future.
Young Abdukodir Khusanov, striking a pose next to what appears to be his yellow Chevrolet car.
Growing up in a privileged household, he was surrounded by the world of football, thanks to his father, Hikmat Khashimov. Hikmat, born on November 12, 1979, is a respected figure in Uzbek football. Standing at 1.82 meters, he played as a Left Midfielder during his professional career, where he gained recognition.
Hikmat’s football journey was impressive, and he retired at the age of 39, with his final club being Metallurg Bekabad, an Uzbek football team based in Bekabad. Abdukodir’s upbringing in a family already steeped in football was a privilege, one that set him on a path toward greatness.
Career Buildup:
Abdukodir Khusanov began his football journey as a student at Bunyodkor, the club where his father worked. Under his father’s guidance, he trained at the academy until he turned 18. From a young age, Abdukodir was moulded into a tough and fearless defender. What stands out about him is the stark contrast between his baby-faced looks and his fierce playing style, marked by intense physical duels and aggression on the field.
From a young age, Abdukodir Khusanov displayed qualities that set him apart from most players in his position. His time at Bunyodkor Academy wasn’t about receiving favouritism from his father. Instead, it was about proving himself as the son of a national football legend. Despite his humble nature, he showed a maturity far beyond his years, a trait that earned him the captain’s armband early in his journey.
Kodir, showcasing his fierce determination with a perfectly timed tackle, proof of his maturity and hunger for success, even at a young age.
From Energetik-BDU to Captaining Uzbekistan U-19:
Khusanov’s career took off the moment he graduated from the academy. In 2022, he made a bold move to Belarus, joining Energetik-BDU, a club known for nurturing young talent with an average team age of just 21. Despite his youth, Abdukodir made an impact, helping the team secure a national championship. Unfortunately, the joy was short-lived, as the medals were later stripped due to match-fixing allegations. But even that setback couldn’t dim his rising star. Abdukodir continued to shine, proving his resilience and hunger for success.
Energetik-BDU wasn’t where Abdukodir Khusanov’s true destiny lay, it was with the Uzbekistan junior national team. In June 2022, he made his debut for the Uzbekistan under-19 squad, where he quickly rose to prominence. By August of that same year, as captain of the team, Abdukodir earned global recognition. The International Center for Sports Research named him among the most promising young players in the world. It was a proud moment that reflected his talent, leadership, and bright future.
From the very beginning, Kodir has embodied leadership, something he does with unmatched passion and drive. Credit: Instagram/abdukodir_khusanov_/
How Europe Found Him:
Abdukodir Khusanov proved he was among the world’s brightest talents when he led his team to victory in the Asian Cup in Tashkent in March 2023. His remarkable individual performances earned him a spot in the 2023 IFFHS Asian Men’s Team of the Year. This was the moment that caught the attention of scouts from French club RC Lens. They were not just impressed by his time in the Belarusian league, but by his exceptional performances for Uzbekistan’s youth national teams.
After Abdukodir Khusanov lifted the Asian U-20 Cup, it became clear that Europe was calling. RC Lens, the club that helped shape the careers of Cheick Doucouré, John Utaka, and Loïs Openda, was the perfect destination for him.
Abdukodir Khusanov proudly celebrates winning the Asian U-20 Cup, a victory that earned him his ticket to Europe. Credit: Instagram/abdukodir_khusanov_/
Did you know? French club RC Lens bought Abdukodir Khusanov for just €100,000. The club described him as “a player with a big build and potential, one to be polished over time.” But Abdukodir didn’t just live up to that description. In fact, he exceeded it. His growth in Ligue 1 proved he was far more than just potential.
Why Manchester City Signed Abdukodir Khusanov:
Many fans were shocked when Manchester City chose Abdukodir Khusanov over other top rising defensive prospects in the world. Pep Guardiola saw something rare in him, a quality that met his high expectations for a central defender. Despite his young age, Abdukodir is known for his toughness on the field. His speed, aggressive playing style and ability to win physical duels set him apart from most players in his position and his age group.
When it was announced that Abdukodir Khusanov would be joining Manchester City, many fans wondered why Pep Guardiola was interested in a defender like him. The truth is, several City defenders, particularly Kyle Walker, had been struggling with form, and injuries were taking a toll. Ruben Dias, English star John Stones, and Nathan Ake had all missed significant parts of the season. Frustrated, Guardiola famously remarked, “We have no defence” after a derby defeat to Man United in December 2024. He also realized that his ageing backline, Walker, Stones, Akanji, and Ake (except for Joško Gvardiol), would all be over 30 by the 2024/2025 season’s end, adding to his concerns.
Sir Alex Ferguson once said, “Attack wins you games, defence wins you titles.” Over the years, Manchester City has proven this, with the best defensive record in four of their six Premier League wins under Pep Guardiola. However, their shaky defence in the first half of the 2024/2025 season is a key reason for their struggle to defend their title. To address this, Guardiola sees Abdukodir Khusanov and Palmeiras’ Vitor Reis as crucial additions to solidify the backline.
Uzbekistan’s Road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup: On Track for Qualification
Abdukodir Khusanov is often compared to a young Fabio Cannavaro for his impressive rise and ability to exceed expectations. At just 20 years old, he’s already leaving a significant mark on the international stage, playing a key role in helping his country make history. Khusanov is on the verge of helping the Uzbekistan national team achieve something historic. As of now, Uzbekistan is just one step away from qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. As of January 2025, Uzbekistan is second in their qualifying group, ahead of strong teams like former World Cup hosts Qatar and the UAE.
Uzbekistan sits second in their qualifying group, on track to make history by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026!
Making History:
Did you know? Before Abdukodir Khusanov joined Manchester City, no player from Uzbekistan had ever played in the Premier League. Khusanov made history as the first Uzbek player to play in the Premier League. But that’s not all, he’s also the most expensive Uzbek player ever, surpassing Eldor Shomurodov‘s €20 million move from Genoa to Roma.
Destiny has truly fulfilled its promise in the Khusanov household. Abdukodir’s father has witnessed the fruits of his labour as his son has achieved his dreams. Abdukodir broke the long-standing barriers that had held back football in Uzbekistan for years, fulfilling the family’s determination to see the country rise on the global football stage. Through Abdukodir’s success, the family’s determination to break the shackles of football in Uzbekistan has been realized through their son becoming a global star. Indeed, a father and son’s relentless determination has come to fruition, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Khusanov and his father share a proud moment, celebrating the incredible achievement that marks a new milestone in his career. Image Credit: instagram/abdukodir_khusanov_/
Untold Facts:
In the final chapter of Abdukodir Khusanov’s story, we’ll unveil more truths you might not know about the defensive ‘monster’ from Uzbekistan. Without further ado, let’s get started.
Why Abdukodir Khusanov is a Must-Have in FIFA FC25 Career Mode:
It’s not every day you find a central defender with blazing speed, but Abdukodir Khusanov breaks the mould. With a sprint speed of 91% on FIFA FC25, he’s in elite company, rivalled only by players like Micky van de Ven, the world’s fastest CB, and Maxence Lacroix, who edges slightly higher at 92%.
What sets Abdukodir apart isn’t just his speed. As of 2024, he’s the youngest centre-back in the world with such an impressive sprint stat. Add his exceptional jumping and strength to the mix, and it’s clear why he’s one to watch. His raw talent and potential could see him become one of the best central defenders in the world in just a few seasons.
For fans of career mode or Football Manager on FC25, Abdukodir is a hidden gem. He’s perfect for building a future-ready team on a reasonable budget. Check out his FC25 stats and see why he’s a fast-rising star in the world of football.
The Defender’s FC25 stats highlight his blazing 91% sprint speed, incredible jumping, and strength. This proves why Kodir is one of the fastest and most promising young defenders in the game.
Abdukodir Khusanov’s Religion: Does He Identify as a Muslim?
Uzbekistan, the country he comes from, is predominantly a Muslim nation, with the majority of its population practising Islam, primarily Sunni Islam (Pew Research Center report). Given these statistics, it is highly likely that Abdukodir Khusanov identifies with Islam, following the faith practised by the vast majority of people in his home country. While personal details about his religious beliefs remain private, the cultural and religious landscape of Uzbekistan suggests a strong possibility of him being a Sunni Muslim.
Khusanov’s Salary at RC Lens Compared to Football’s Biggest Earners:
When Abdukodir Khusanov joined RC Lens, he earned a modest weekly salary of €2,692, totaling €140,000 annually. Surprising, isn’t it? RC Lens’ total weekly wage bill stands at €505,193. To put this into perspective, it’s less than the weekly earnings of Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé (€600,962) or Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski (€640,962), who also earns a staggering €33.33 million annually. Curious to see how Khusanov’s earnings compare to his teammates? Here’s a closer look at RC Lens’ salary table and where Abdukodir fits in.
Khusanov’s salary at RC Lens highlights the club’s modest wage structure compared to football’s biggest stars. Source: Capology.
End Note:
Abdukodir Khusanov’s journey to football stardom is deeply rooted in his family’s passion and vision for the sport. His father, Hikmat Khashimov, was a respected defender in Uzbekistan’s championship during the 2000s. He made notable contributions to Metallurg Bekabad across three separate stints. Hikmat’s dedication to football extended beyond the pitch as he transitioned into coaching at FK Bunyodkor, a club where his influence still holds weight.
The decision to give Abdukodir his grandfather’s surname was a deliberate move by the family to shield him from speculation or accusations of nepotism. This allowed Hikmat to focus on honing his skills without undue pressure or distractions.
Abdukodir achieved a meteoric rise with the Uzbek national junior team, leading his team to triumph at the Asian U-20 Cup. With that victory, he proved himself as a pillar of hope for Uzbekistan’s football future. His contributions didn’t end there. Khusanov became an integral part of the senior national team, playing a crucial role in their quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup of 2026.
At RC Lens, Khusanov’s rise was meteoric. Despite arriving as a relatively unknown player, the Defender quickly established himself as a reliable defender with an aggressive playing style and remarkable composure. His performances in Ligue 1 didn’t go unnoticed, as it captured the attention of Manchester City. Pep Guardiola, recognizing his rare qualities, brought him to one of the world’s most prestigious clubs.
The Khusanov family’s determination to break the shackles of football limitations in Uzbekistan has been realized through Abdukodir’s rise. With his father as his idol and guiding force, Abdukodir charted a new path for his country, becoming a global symbol of hope and inspiration.
Appreciation Note:
Thank you for reading this memoir about Abdukodir, a true symbol of hope for football in Uzbekistan. We’re committed to fairness and accuracy in sharing inspiring football stories from Asia, just as we’ve done with players like Mehdi Taremi and Sardar Azmoun. If you spot anything in this article about Kodir that seems off, please let us know. We’d also love to hear your thoughts on his career and football journey in the comments section!
