The Guardian names Sadriddin Khasanov among the world’s top young talents

British newspaper The Guardian has included Tashkent-based Bunyodkor forward Sadriddin Khasanov in its list of the world’s best young football talents. The ranking features 60 players born in 2008 who are considered the most promising prospects in world football.

Photo: UFA

The Guardian described Khasanov as a fast, powerful, ambitious player with a strong winning mentality, adding that he “likes to cut inside from the left.”

In its profile, the newspaper recalled Khasanov’s decisive role in the U-17 Asian Cup final held in April:

“Uzbekistan were drawing 0-0 with Saudi Arabia at half-time in the final of the U-17 Asian Cup in April but were down to nine men after two red cards. Enter Khasanov. He inspired the team to a 2-0 victory, scoring a fine individual goal in the process. He was named the player of the tournament with four goals in total. Likes to cut inside from the left, fast, strong, with an eye for goal, Khasanov also appears to have a winning mentality. Already linked with a move to Turkey, there could well be more options soon, especially if he is named as the Young Asian Player of the Year after making the shortlist for the AFC’s award.”

Khasanov, who was crowned Best Player of the U-17 Asian Cup, is expected to showcase his talent again at the U-17 World Cup in Qatar this November. The Asian champions will face Paraguay, Ireland, and Panama in the group stage.

Following Uzbekistan’s victory at the Asian Cup, Kun.uz interviewed Khasanov’s parents. His mother, Dilfuza Rahmatullayeva, said:

“We believed in him because my son promised me, ‘Mother, I will definitely bring home the trophy.’”

In addition to Khasanov, The Guardian’s list also includes Kazakh forward Dastan Satpayev, who currently plays for Kairat. English club Chelsea has reportedly signed him for €4 million, with his transfer to London expected in the summer of 2026.