Revolution in football - Sports digest

January 3rd marked a pivotal day for Uzbek sports, with several significant developments. On one hand, an Uzbek player officially joined one of the world’s premier football clubs. On the other, key changes unfolded within the organization considered the backbone of football in Uzbekistan. Additionally, with World Cup qualifiers nearing their peak, the national team saw a reshuffling of its coaching staff.

Welcome to Sports Digest on QALAMPIR.UZ, where we cover trending topics in sports, including major transfers, changes within the Uzbekistan Football Association (UFA), and other noteworthy developments.

"Manchester City" completes transfer of Khusanov

In a groundbreaking move, English club "Manchester City" announced the acquisition of Uzbek footballer Abdukodir Khusanov. The announcement was made by the club's official press service.

On January 20, Khusanov successfully passed his medical examination, after which "Manchester City" introduced him as the newest member of their squad. The club secured the central defender from French side "Lens" for a total of 50 million euros, including bonuses. The deal was finalized with a 4.5-year contract, plus an additional one-year option.

Khusanov gives first interview in "Manchester City" shirt

Abdukadir Khusanov, the newly acquired Uzbek footballer at "Manchester City", gave his first interview to the club’s press service, sharing his excitement and goals for the future. The 20-year-old defender expressed his ambition to win trophies with his new club.

"I am very happy to join this team. This club is the best in the world. I came here to win trophies. This team is huge, and the coach is one of the best, which is why I’m here," Khusanov said.

He also discussed his football journey, explaining how he began playing the sport and how his career progressed.

“I started with the "Toshkuch" team, then moved to the "Bunyodkor" academy. I began my professional career in Belarus, and at 18, I moved to France. Now, I’m in England,” Khusanov shared.

Khusanov went on to explain why he chose the number 45 shirt and why he selected "Manchester City" despite other offers.

“I wore number 45 during my time in Belarus, so it was natural to keep it. As I’ve said, "Manchester City" is the best team, with the best coach and in the best league. I’ve been watching City’s games since I was a child. Their playing style is unique, different from many other teams. I’ve always aimed for the best, and now I’m here to work with the best. I’ve faced challenges before, but I won’t stop. For me, and maybe for all of Uzbekistan, I’m the first player from the country to play in the Premier League. This journey will continue," said Khusanov.

During the interview, Khusanov also reflected on Uzbekistan’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

"Our passion for football is growing every day. Everyone is hopeful and believes we can qualify for the World Cup. We’re just one step away," he said.

Khusanov also shared how his father influenced his career.

"I watched my dad play football, and that's how I became interested in the sport. He has played a huge role in helping me get to where I am today. After every practice and game, we sit down together to analyze my mistakes and areas for improvement," Khusanov concluded.

All "Manchester City" players pleased to welcome Khusanov – club’s sporting director

Chick Bergstein, the sporting director of Manchester City, shared his thoughts on the club’s new Uzbek signing, Abdukodir Khusanov, during a press conference held to introduce the player. 

Bergstein expressed his excitement over the signing, highlighting Khusanov’s potential and abilities. "We are delighted to have added Abdukodir to our ranks. We look forward to his contribution to the development of our team. Khusanov is a highly intelligent player, very aggressive, and extremely fast. Working with Guardiola will help him become even stronger. From our conversation, I can tell that he is determined to keep improving. His arrival is a great opportunity to strengthen our position as one of the best teams in Europe. All the players at Manchester City are happy to have Abdukodir Khusanov in the team," said Bergstein.

Khusanov will wear the number 45 shirt at "Manchester City" and will make history as the first Uzbek player to play in the Premier League. With his arrival, the number of countries represented in the Premier League has now reached 119.

Abdusalom Azizov steps down from UFA leadership

Abdusalom Azizov has been relieved of his duties as President of the Uzbekistan Football Association (UFA), with the First Vice-President of the UFA, Ravshan Ermatov, temporarily taking over his responsibilities. This announcement was made by the UFA.

An extraordinary election congress is scheduled for February 22 of this year, where a new leader of the association will be elected.

For context, Abdusalom Abdumavlonovich Azizov, born on January 20, 1960, in Tashkent, has had a distinguished career in both public service and football administration. He graduated from the Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan and held several prominent positions, including Chairman of the National Holding Company “Uzbekneftegaz,” General Director of JSC “Uzbekneftmaxulot,” and Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan. Azizov also served as Minister of Internal Affairs, Minister of Defense, and Chairman of the State Security Service from 2009 to 2024. Throughout his career, he received several military ranks, including Major General in 2017 and Lieutenant General in 2019.

Katanec resigns as coach of Uzbekistan national team

Srečko Katanec has resigned as head coach of the Uzbekistan national football team due to health issues. The Football Association of Uzbekistan (UFA) confirmed this decision in a statement.

According to the UFA, the contract with Katanec was mutually terminated due to his ongoing health concerns. In his statement, the Slovenian coach expressed regret over not being able to fully fulfill his duties and responsibilities in his current role. He thanked the UFA for its constant support and fruitful collaboration, wishing the national team success in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

The termination of Katanec’s contract has been amicable, and the UFA is actively working to appoint a new head coach for the national team.

Kapadze appointed head coach of Uzbekistan youth national team

Temur Kapadze, the coach who led Uzbekistan’s youth national team to the Olympic Games, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Uzbekistan national football team. The Football Association of Uzbekistan made the announcement in a statement.

The UFA conducted a thorough review and analysis of several candidates for the role of head coach. “Negotiations were held with both experienced local and international specialists, and the recommendations made by the coaching council were carefully considered,” the UFA noted.

Given the limited time remaining before critical World Cup qualifiers, the UFA chose Temur Kapadze due to his familiarity with the team, his extensive experience playing for and coaching the national team, and his success with the Uzbek U-23 team. Kapadze’s leadership led the youth team to historic results, including qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

“In the current situation, the UFA believes that Kapadze will achieve positive results due to his coaching talent, his strong relationship with the players, and his relentless pursuit of excellence,” the UFA added.

The Uzbekistan national team is currently training in Qatar, and Kapadze will join the camp to assume control of the team.

For context, Kapadze previously led the U-23 team to the Paris 2024 Olympics and secured a silver medal at the Asian Cup with the team.