Khusanov focused on developing and helping City win trophies | OneFootball

Abdukodir Khusanov says he has come to Manchester City to grow as a player and win trophies.

The 20-year-old Uzbekistan international joins from Lens after penning a four-and-a-half-year contract, with the Blues fighting off numerous suitors from many of Europe’s top clubs.

After starting out with Energetik-BGU in Belarus as a teenager, he clocked up 37 starts and scored four goals before moving to Ligue 1 side Lens.

The pacy, physical central defender made 31 appearances for the French side before joining City – and now he can’t wait to get going.

“I'm really happy to join this team,” said Khusanov.

“I have come here to develop and grow, and to win trophies with City.

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“This is one of the major teams in football and the coach is among the best. That's why I’m here.”

Speaking of his progress to date, he added: “I started my career journey with a team called ToshKuch. Then I moved to the Bunyodkor Academy.

WATCH: Watch: Khusanov gives first interview as a City player

“From the Bunyodkor Academy I moved to Belarus, where I began my professional football career.

“When I was 18 I moved to France. From France now I find myself here at Manchester City.

“I watch Manchester City games and I used to watch them when I was young too.

“I can definitely say that City play interesting football very well with a unique style.

“I've always chosen the best coaches. Now too, I have come here to work with the best one.”

Khusanov, the first Uzbek to play in Ligue 1, will again make history by becoming the first player from his nation to play in the Premier League.

City’s new No.45 says it is a huge honour for not only him, but his family and nation as well – and promised he will be the first of many.

“This is not just for me but also for Uzbekistan,” he said.

“The first Uzbek in the Premier League but I'm sure that this is only the beginning.

“More Uzbek players will come and play in the Premier League.

“There is growing interest in football in Uzbekistan.

“For this reason, everybody there wants to qualify for the World Cup, we are just one stop away from qualifying.