19-year-old defender Abdukodir Khusanov from the Uzbekistan national team has successfully secured a transfer to French club Lens, which finished as vice-champions of France last season, just one point behind the winner PSG, reported Lens on July 24.
Before joining Lens, Khusanov spent two years playing for Belarusian club Energetik-BGU after coming through the Bunyodkor Academy. During his time with Energetik-BGU, he played 37 matches, impressively scoring four goals and providing four assists.
The young talent had a remarkable year, achieving significant milestones in his football career. Khusanov was part of the Uzbekistan U-20 team that won the Asian Cup and participated in the World Youth Championship. Moreover, he made his debut for the senior national team of Uzbekistan in June, representing his country in three matches at the CAFA Nations Cup 2023.
As a new player in Lens, Khusanov will wear the number 25 jersey and has signed a four-year contract, committing to the club until 2027. He has garnered recognition on Lens' website as a "rare talent from Asia" and holds the distinction of being the first player from Uzbekistan to join the club in its history.
It is worth noting that Lens is set to compete in the group stage of the prestigious UEFA Champions League in the upcoming autumn season, providing Khusanov with an opportunity to showcase his skills on the European stage.
Abdukodir Khusanov comes from a footballing family, with his father, Hikmat Khashimov, having been a defender for several teams in Uzbekistan's championship during the 2000s and representing the national team in 12 matches. Khashimov previously coached Bunyodkor and currently holds a prominent position within the club. The decision to give Abdukodir his surname in honour of his grandfather was made to avoid any speculation or rumours of nepotism, ensuring a focus on his proper football development.
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