Imagine having a birthday that only comes around once every four years. For Manchester City’s newest defensive recruit, Abdukodir Khusanov, this is a reality he’s lived with his entire life.
Born on February 29th, the 20-year-old center back has only been able to celebrate his actual birthday five times.
Khusanov’s rare birthday has led to an annual dilemma: choosing between celebrating on February 28th or March 1st in non-leap years. “It’s a bit strange, but I’ve gotten used to it,” he joked. “My friends and family usually celebrate with me on the 28th, but sometimes we wait until March 1st.”
The Uzbekistani defender’s friends and family aren’t the only ones who find his birthday unusual – his new teammates at Manchester City have also taken notice.
“We’ve already started teasing him about it,” said one senior player. “We told him he’s technically only five years old, so he’s got a long career ahead of him!” Khusanov takes the playful jokes in stride, but he’s focused on making an impact on the pitch.
As for his birthday plans this year, Khusanov confirmed he’ll be celebrating on February 28th. “It’s easier that way,” he said with a smile. “But I’ll make sure to have an extra big party in 2028!”
Despite the challenges that come with having a Leap Day birthday, Khusanov wouldn’t have it any other way. “It’s a unique part of who I am,” he said. “I’m proud to be a Leap Day baby!”
How do you know Khusanov?
Born on February 29, 2004, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Khusanov began his football journey in his hometown, playing for local clubs before catching the attention of scouts.
Khusanov started his career at Energetik-BGU in Belarus in 2022, where he played for one and a half seasons before transferring to French side Lens in 2023.
At Lens, he became a key player for the club before joining Manchester City in 2025, making history by becoming the first Uzbek player in the English Premier League.
Khusanov is an Uzbekistan international, having represented the country from under-17 age group onwards.
He earned a senior call-up in 2023 and represented Uzbekistan at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup. Khusanov also played for the Uzbekistan U20 team, helping the team win the AFC U-20 Asian Cup in 2023 and qualify for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
At Manchester City, Khusanov made his debut against Chelsea on January 25, 2025, becoming the first Uzbek player to play in the Premier League.
He scored his first goal for the club on February 8, 2025, in an FA Cup match against Leyton Orient.