Sports Digest: Khusanov’s debut, Shomurodov’s goal, and Norchaev’s future

The past week has been eventful for Uzbek footballers playing abroad. While all eyes were on Abdukodir Khusanov following his Premier League debut, Eldor Shomurodov reminded fans of his presence by scoring for Roma. Meanwhile, another Uzbek talent is close to joining a top Portuguese club. Here’s a recap of the latest news from the football world.

Guardiola Admits Khusanov’s Early Start Was a Mistake

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola admitted that fielding Abdukodir Khusanov in the starting lineup against Chelsea in the 23rd round of the Premier League was a tough decision. Speaking to the club’s press service, Guardiola explained the challenges the 20-year-old faced.

"He came to a new country. It's not easy to play against Chelsea in the Premier League without much communication with your teammates, without training, and without fully understanding the requirements. It's difficult to make a debut in such a situation. I can only imagine what Khusanov went through," Guardiola stated.

Khusanov played 52 minutes in the match, during which he made an early mistake that led to a Chelsea goal.

Josko Gvardiol: ‘Khusanov Seems Like a Good Guy’

Manchester City’s Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol spoke about his new teammate Abdukodir Khusanov during a press conference ahead of the Champions League match against Club Brugge on January 29.

"Abdukodir seems like a good guy. He didn't play badly in the last match. Making a debut in the Premier League against Chelsea is not easy. He's still young, and we are ready to help him in any way we can. He can always count on me and other experienced players for support," Gvardiol said.

While Khusanov’s early mistakes were noticed by fans, he also showed confidence in several key moments.

Khusayin Norchaev Set for a Move to Portugal?

22-year-old Uzbek striker Khusayin Norchaev, currently playing for Alania Vladikavkaz, is reportedly close to joining Portuguese club Braga. According to Metaratings, Norchayev has already started visa procedures before undergoing a medical examination.

Norchaev moved from Nasaf (Karshi) to Alania in February 2023 for a €300,000 transfer fee. Last season, he played on loan at Neftchi Fergana, scoring 4 goals and providing 2 assists in 15 matches.

Alania’s management is currently planning to cut costs significantly, including reducing the team's wage bill by five times. This has led to speculation that they are open to offers for Norchaev.

Sardor Rashidov: ‘Portugal Can Be a Springboard for Norchaev’

Former Uzbek international Sardor Rashidov, who played in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, shared his thoughts on Norchaev’s potential transfer to Braga in an interview with QALAMPIR.UZ.

"Khusayin has great potential, and Uzbek players have proven they can succeed in any league. The Portuguese Championship can be a good stepping stone for him. I wish him success and hope he scores a hat-trick like I did," said Rashidov.

For reference, Rashidov played for Portuguese club Nacional in 2019, appearing in 7 matches and scoring a hat-trick in one of them.