If reports are to be believed, Colombian football star Jhon Durán is set to embark on an extraordinary daily journey of over 950 km to train with his new Saudi Pro League club, Al-Nassr.
The reason? Uncertainty surrounding Saudi Arabia’s laws for live-in couples has left the former Aston Villa striker unsure if he can live with his girlfriend there.
According to several European news outlets, Durán—who recently completed a £64 million transfer from Aston Villa to Al-Nassr—will be based in Bahrain. He will then commute to Riyadh, where Al-Nassr is headquartered. A one-way flight between Bahrain and Riyadh takes approximately 80 minutes.
Reports suggest that landlords in Saudi Arabia often require proof of marriage before renting out properties to couples. However, exceptions have been made in special cases. For instance, Cristiano Ronaldo, Durán’s new teammate at Al-Nassr, has been allowed to live with his girlfriend, Georgina Rodríguez.
This isn’t the first time foreign players have faced such challenges. During their stints in the Saudi Pro League, former Premier League stars Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson were also based in Bahrain.
In an X message, Al Nassr FC called it “FunnyFake news.”
Durán’s Journey from Aston Villa to Al-Nassr
Despite impressive substitute appearances, Durán struggled to secure a regular spot in Aston Villa’s starting lineup. However, the 21-year-old Colombian made a significant impact during his time at the club. Most notably, he scored the goal in Villa’s memorable Champions League victory against Bayern Munich earlier this season.
In a statement, Aston Villa confirmed Durán’s transfer:
“Aston Villa can confirm that Jhon Durán has joined Al-Nassr for an undisclosed fee. The striker moves to Saudi Arabia having scored 12 goals for Villa this term, including the winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Everyone at Aston Villa would like to wish Jhon all the best in the next step of his professional career.”
This transfer marks the second-largest fee ever received by Aston Villa, surpassed only by the £100 million Manchester City paid for Jack Grealish. Durán joined Villa from Chicago Fire for £18 million in January 2023, scoring 20 goals in 78 appearances but making just seven league starts.
What Durán’s Exit Means for Aston Villa
Durán’s departure ensures that England striker Ollie Watkins will remain at Aston Villa. Watkins had been the subject of a reported £60 million bid from Arsenal. On Friday, Villa boss Unai Emery confirmed that Watkins expressed his desire to stay with the club.
As Durán begins this new chapter in his career, his daily commute highlights the lengths some are willing to go to for love—and football
