Abdukodir Khusanov Enters World Top-100 — A Historic Moment for Uzbekistan
Sport
Abdukodir Khusanov, defender of Manchester City and the Uzbekistan national team, has for the first time in the country’s history been included in The Athletic’s ranking of the world’s top 100 footballers ahead of the upcoming World Cup. He placed 86th, confirming his status as one of Europe’s fastest-rising defenders.
The Athletic’s analysts evaluated not only club performance, but also a player’s potential influence on their national team during the tournament. Consistency, high-level match statistics and year-round stability were key factors.
Khusanov’s inclusion continues a breakthrough year for the Uzbek defender. Earlier reports highlighted that he became the most expensive Premier League player among footballers from the post-Soviet region — recognition now strengthened by international experts.
The ranking is led by Kylian Mbappé, followed by Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal. The top ten also features Harry Kane, Pedri, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Lionel Messi, Kevin De Bruyne and Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Cristiano Ronaldo was separately highlighted, taking 25th place and showing he remains competitive at the highest level.
For Central Asian football, Khusanov’s presence in the list marks a historic milestone — the first time a defender from the region has ranked above players considered for the national teams of Italy and Germany.
Khusanov’s inclusion continues a breakthrough year for the Uzbek defender. Earlier reports highlighted that he became the most expensive Premier League player among footballers from the post-Soviet region — recognition now strengthened by international experts.
The ranking is led by Kylian Mbappé, followed by Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal. The top ten also features Harry Kane, Pedri, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Lionel Messi, Kevin De Bruyne and Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Cristiano Ronaldo was separately highlighted, taking 25th place and showing he remains competitive at the highest level.
For Central Asian football, Khusanov’s presence in the list marks a historic milestone — the first time a defender from the region has ranked above players considered for the national teams of Italy and Germany.
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