Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that defender Abdukodir Khusanov missed the club’s Premier League meeting with Brentford FC because of an injury suffered earlier in the week.
The Sky Blues welcomed Brentford to the Etihad Stadium knowing victory was essential after dropping points in a dramatic draw against Everton.
City’s title challenge had suffered a setback on Monday evening when they were held to a 3-3 result, leaving them five points adrift of league leaders Arsenal FC.
That disappointing outing also brought another concern for Guardiola after Khusanov picked up a knock which ultimately ruled him out of the latest fixture.
Before kick-off, questions quickly emerged over the defender’s absence from the matchday squad, particularly given his growing importance in recent weeks.
Guardiola later confirmed the Uzbekistan international was unavailable because of an injury issue sustained during the clash at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
According to reports from Sky Sports, relayed by journalist Simon Bajkowski, the City manager explained that the defender had suffered a “tough knock in a painful area”.
Although Guardiola suggested the problem was not regarded as serious, the coaching staff decided against taking any risks with the player’s fitness.
Khusanov’s absence opened the door for Nathan Aké to return to the starting line-up. The Netherlands international made his first Premier League start since City’s defeat by Manchester United FC in January, stepping into the centre of defence as Guardiola reshuffled his back line.
The decision proved effective as City delivered an assured performance to secure a comfortable 3-0 victory over Brentford.
The result not only ended concerns after the Everton draw but also reduced the gap between City and Arsenal to two points in the Premier League standings.
For Guardiola, the afternoon represented an important response from his players at a stage of the campaign where every result carries enormous significance.
Khusanov setback highlights City’s defensive concerns
Khusanov’s injury may not be considered severe, but his absence still underlined the defensive challenges City have encountered throughout the season.
The young defender has increasingly become a trusted figure within Guardiola’s squad.
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Since arriving at the club, he has impressed with his physical strength, calm distribution and willingness to defend aggressively in one-on-one situations.
Supporters have quickly taken to the Uzbekistan international because of his committed style of play and maturity despite his age.
His recent displays have also strengthened City’s defensive options during a demanding campaign filled with injuries and fixture congestion.
Guardiola has regularly been forced to rotate his defenders this season, with several senior players spending time on the sidelines.
Injuries to key figures have disrupted continuity at the back, making squad depth crucial in both domestic and European competitions.
