How Has Uzbek Football Grown, and Who Are Its Rising Stars?

Uzbek Football has experienced significant growth, marked by historic achievements and the emergence of talented players like Khusanov. Discover the factors driving this progress and the stars to watch. CauHoi2025.UK.COM offers comprehensive insights into the development of Uzbekistani soccer.

1. What Factors Have Contributed to the Growth of Uzbek Football?

Uzbek football’s growth is attributed to several factors, including:

  • Investment in Youth Academies: Clubs like Bunyodkor have invested in youth academies, nurturing talent from a young age.
  • Exposure to International Competition: Participation in tournaments like the AFC Under-20 Asian Cup and the Under-20 World Cup has provided valuable experience.
  • Strategic Player Development: Players are seeking opportunities abroad to gain exposure and refine their skills.

2. Who Is Khusanov, and How Did He Start His Football Career?

Khusanov’s football journey began at age seven when he joined Bunyodkor’s academy in Tashkent. Despite his talent, at 17, the club deemed him not physically strong enough for more than a third-tier reserve team role. His father, Hukmat Hoshimov, a former Uzbekistan international, sought alternative options, leading him to Belarusian side Energetik-BGU.

3. What Was Khusanov’s Impact in Belarusian Football?

Khusanov joined Energetik-BGU in Belarus, where he had to wait a year to debut due to contract restrictions. Once eligible, his impact was immediate. Playing as a center-back, Khusanov helped Energetik-BGU achieve an improbable second-place finish in the Belarusian top flight in 2022.

4. How Did Khusanov Gain International Recognition?

Khusanov’s development was largely unnoticed until his late call-up to the Uzbekistan national team for the AFC Under-20 Asian Cup in March 2023. He played every minute as his side won a historic title. Subsequently, Uzbekistan qualified for the Under-20 World Cup in May 2023, where Lens’ scouting manager, Baptiste Favier, scouted him.

5. What Led to Khusanov’s Transfer to Lens?

Lens signed Khusanov in July 2023 for just £84,000 after their scouting manager, Baptiste Favier, watched him at the Under-20 World Cup. Despite being relatively unknown upon his arrival, Khusanov quickly demonstrated his special qualities, disrupting Lens’ settled backline.

6. How Has Khusanov Performed in Ligue 1?

Khusanov has made a significant impact in Ligue 1, disrupting a settled backline to make 13 appearances, 11 of them starts. His performances have garnered high praise from teammates and coaches.

7. What Do Khusanov’s Teammates and Coaches Say About Him?

Teammates and coaches have lauded Khusanov’s potential and impact. Kevin Danso suggested that if Khusanov came from a top league, he would have cost €100m. Former Lens goalkeeper Brice Samba noted that Khusanov has shaken up the hierarchy in their defense and is destined for a great future.

8. Why Did Lens Keep a Signed Match-Worn Shirt of Khusanov?

Lens have kept a signed match-worn shirt of Khusanov for their club collection. This practice is reserved only for the greatest players to pass through the club, indicating the high expectations and confidence Lens has in Khusanov’s future.

9. What Other Uzbek Football Players Are Showing Promise?

While Khusanov is a prominent example, other Uzbek players are also showing promise, contributing to the overall growth of Uzbek football. These players often seek opportunities in European leagues to enhance their development.

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