FA Cup opportunity: Khusanov could earn a spot for a game with “Real Madrid”

"Manchester City" will face "Leyton Orient" in the fourth round of the FA Cup tomorrow, February 8. This match presents an opportunity for young players, including Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov, to prove themselves ahead of a tough fixture schedule.  

Favorable opponent amid City's grueling schedule

Pep Guardiola's team is set to endure a demanding February with crucial matches lined up. Adding to the challenge, key players such as Rodri, Rúben Dias, and Jérémy Doku are currently sidelined with injuries. This situation opens the door for City’s younger talents to step up in the FA Cup clash against "Leyton Orient".  

Khusanov is among those who could benefit from this rotation. If he performs well, he may secure a spot in the starting lineup for City's high-profile Champions League match against "Real Madrid" on February 12.  

Projected "Manchester City"  lineup vs. "Leyton Orient"

According to "Sportsmole", Manchester City’s predicted starting XI for February 8 includes:  

Ortega; Luce, Husanov, Stones, O'Reilly; Gundogan, Maketi, Savino; De Bruyne, Grealish; Mubama.

The publication also speculated on the defensive pairing of Khusanov and Vitor Reyes.  

"Guardiola is expected to rotate the squad ahead of the Champions League clash against "Real Madrid" next week. New signings Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reyes have a chance to start in defense. Rico Lewis and Jamaay Simpson-Pusey could also feature in the backline," the report stated.  

"Manchester City"'s schedule for the month includes:  

- February 8 – Leyton Orient (FA Cup, away)  
- February 12 – Real Madrid (Champions League, home)  
- February 15 – Newcastle (Premier League, home)  
- February 20 – Real Madrid (Champions League, away)  
- February 23 – Liverpool (Premier League, home)  
- February 27 – Tottenham (Premier League, away)  

Khusanov’s performance against "Leyton Orient" could determine his role in these critical upcoming fixtures.