Guardiola Praises Khusanov’s Performance Despite Defeat to Brighton

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola has shared his thoughts on Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov’s first start of the season, assessing his performance in the Premier League match against Brighton.

Khusanov was included in the starting XI but was forced to leave the pitch shortly before the final whistle due to injury. It was in the closing stages that Brighton snatched victory, with Bryan Gruda scoring in the 89th minute.

According to Guardiola, fatigue was the key factor in conceding the late goal:

“It was fatigue,” he said. “We were pressing well and attacking, but the clearance was short, we didn’t cover the flank, and their players used their pace. Khusanov could have dealt with it since he is very quick, but unfortunately he took a knock and couldn’t continue.”

The Spanish manager emphasized that overall he was pleased with both the team’s effort and the young defender’s performance:

“We pressed high and regained the ball quickly. That episode came in the final minutes when the players were tired and had to track back. I believe Khusanov will be fine.”

On 31 August 2025, in Match Day 3 of the English Premier League, Manchester City lost 1–2 to Brighton.