With Manchester City's two key central defenders, Ruben Dias and Joshua Gwadiol, sidelined for extended periods due to injury, 21-year-old Uzbek international Abdukodir Khusanov has been called upon to fill the void and become the new focal point of the team's defense.

At the pre-match press conference for the Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle United on Tuesday night, manager Pep Guardiola did not hold back in praising Husanov, calling him a "top signing".

Since joining from Lens in Ligue 1 a year ago, Husanov has been adapting to the pace and language environment of the Premier League. Recently, he started in both the Premier League draw against Brighton and the FA Cup thrashing of Exeter City 10-1, proving his worth with outstanding performances.

Guardiola emphasized: "He is a special player. If he were to enter the transfer market now, all of Europe's top ten clubs would be vying for him because, as a defender, he possesses extremely rare physical qualities and unique attributes."

“He is very reliable, learns extremely quickly, and speaks English quite well. I always encourage him and tell him he is really great. He has long passing ability and amazing passing speed, he just needs more courage to do it. He is still very young, and with the accumulation of game experience, his potential is immeasurable.”

In addition, Guardiola confirmed key personnel arrangements for the Carabao Cup. 23-year-old England goalkeeper James Trafford will continue to start against Newcastle United.

Although Gianluigi Donnarumma, who joined last summer, currently holds a regular starting position in the league, Trafford has earned his trust through his excellent professionalism. He also started in the FA Cup match last Saturday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola praises "top signing" Husanov