Uzbekistan’s Khusanov named Asia’s Best Young Footballer of 2025

Manchester City defender caps breakthrough year with regional honor and rising global recognition

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Abdukodir Khusanov, a central defender for the Uzbekistan national team and English champions Manchester City, has been named Asia’s Best Young Footballer of 2025 by football outlet Goalpost, marking a major milestone in the 21-year-old’s rapid rise, according to The Times of Central Asia.

The past year has been a breakthrough for Khusanov. In January, he became the first player from Uzbekistan to make his debut in the English Premier League following his transfer to Manchester City. He has since earned regular playing time at one of Europe’s elite clubs, making nine appearances for City this season.

Khusanov has also made a decisive impact at the international level. In June, he played a key role in helping Uzbekistan qualify for the FIFA World Cup, a historic achievement for the national team and a moment widely seen as transformative for football in the country.

His performances across club and international competitions placed him atop Goalpost’s annual rankings, ahead of highly rated young players from Australia, Indonesia, South Korea, Iraq and other Asian nations.

Khusanov’s global profile continues to rise. He was recently ranked 86th on The Athletic’s list of the world’s top 100 footballers, highlighting his growing recognition beyond Asia.

Interest from Europe’s biggest clubs is also intensifying. In December, media reports said Real Madrid was considering Khusanov for a mid-season loan move as it looks to address an injury-hit defense. The Spanish club is said to value his physical strength and versatility, including his ability to operate across multiple defensive roles.