EPL Index
·7 October 2024
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·7 October 2024
Jhon Duran, Aston Villa’s rising star, has officially committed his future to the club by signing a new contract that will keep him at Villa Park until 2030. This deal marks another significant milestone in the young striker’s burgeoning career, and it’s clear that the club sees him as a key component of their future success.
The 20-year-old Colombian forward joined Aston Villa in January 2023 from Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, arriving for a reported fee of £18 million. Originally signing a five-and-a-half-year contract, his new extension solidifies Villa’s belief in his potential.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. Duran was close to leaving the Midlands this past summer, with both Chelsea and West Ham expressing strong interest. Yet, despite the speculation, he stayed at Villa Park—a decision that is paying dividends for both player and club.
Duran’s impact this season has been nothing short of impressive. The forward has already scored six goals, including a memorable strike in Villa’s 1-0 Champions League victory against Bayern Munich. His ability to step up in crucial moments has become a defining feature of his game, with match-winning goals against West Ham, Leicester, and Everton in the Premier League.
Unai Emery, Villa’s head coach, has shown immense faith in the Colombian talent. Duran was only Emery’s second signing after taking over as manager in October 2022, and the investment is proving fruitful. As the season progresses, Duran’s knack for delivering when it matters most has made him a fan favourite and a vital cog in Villa’s attacking machine.
Not only is Duran shining on the domestic stage, but he is also making his mark on the international scene. He has already earned 12 caps for the Colombian national team, scoring once. While his goal tally may seem modest, his performances in the iconic yellow shirt of Colombia hint at greater things to come as he continues to mature.
His international exposure complements his development at Villa, where the pressure of playing in both the Premier League and Champions League has accelerated his growth. His blend of strength, agility, and composure in front of goal makes him a striker with a bright future, not just for Aston Villa but for his country as well.
Signing Jhon Duran to a long-term contract until 2030 represents Aston Villa’s clear ambition to build a squad capable of competing at the highest levels. At just 20 years old, Duran’s best years are still ahead of him, and under the guidance of Unai Emery, he is poised to reach new heights.