A decision that surprised many, especially when Duran was expected to become the spearhead of Al-Nassr's long-term plans. But behind that quick departure were behind-the-scenes stories that showed that the Saudi Arabian football environment - especially in teams with superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo - is not an easy place for everyone.
When CR7 is the center of gravity - and push
Cristiano Ronaldo is more than just a player. He is a brand, a force that dominates from the pitch to the dressing room. And at Al-Nassr, that has not changed.
According to many international sources, including Sports Illustrated and The Sports News Blitz , Duran was not only under pressure from fierce competition, but also had difficulty because of the "unstable atmosphere" in the locker room - where all eyes were on Ronaldo.
Some newspapers have even quoted sources as saying that Ronaldo was “unhappy with Duran’s presence”, and that his influence was so great that it could influence personnel decisions at the club. Although there has been no official confirmation from Al-Nassr or insiders, the fact that Duran left quietly and without any signs of any professional damage (he scored 12 goals in 18 Saudi Pro League games) suggests that the problem may lie elsewhere.
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The Duran deal cost Al-Nassr an estimated fee of 75-85 million euros including additional fees - a huge number for a player born in 2003. |
For a 21-year-old striker with potential and who had been pursued by big European clubs, coming to Al-Nassr - where one of the greatest players in history was present - should have been a launching pad. But on the contrary, Duran had to leave after only half a year. A young player needs an environment to develop, and Al-Nassr - under the giant shadow of CR7 - is not a place for "natural growth".
Duran was linked with a move to Manchester United and a number of Serie A clubs, but he eventually joined Fenerbahce on loan - where he hopes to regain his playing form and tactical freedom.
Financial and image implications
The Duran deal cost Al-Nassr an estimated fee of 75-85 million euros, including add-ons - a huge sum for a player born in 2003. When he left after only six months, the Saudi Arabian club not only lost an investment but also faced image pressure: is Saudi football not really suitable for young players who have not yet formed their personal identity?
For Duran, moving to Türkiye is not a step back, but it certainly does not meet initial expectations. The huge salary once made Man United withdraw, and now it is time for him to prove his ability in a less pressured environment, away from the shadow of superstars.
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In the whirlwind surrounding Ronaldo, not everyone can find a place. |
Son Heung-min once said: “It is an honor to play with legends, but to survive in the same dressing room with them - that is an art”. For players who are not brave enough, not yet vocal enough, the presence of people like Ronaldo can be a double-edged sword. CR7 is an example of professionalism, a desire to win, but also a personality too big - not everyone can "live with".
And Jhon Duran, though he didn't say it, probably felt it clearly. In the whirlwind surrounding Ronaldo, not everyone can find a place - especially those who are too young.
Duran left not because he failed, but because he could not grow up in an ecosystem that only served one star. A cold, but common truth in modern football.
Source: https://znews.vn/ronaldo-khong-vua-mat-duran-phai-roi-di-post1574331.html
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