Zenit Manager Outlines Fitness Demands for Jhon Duran After Debut Appearance
Former Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has made his first appearance for Zenit Saint Petersburg, featuring in a friendly match against Krasnodar. The Russian Premier League season is set to resume shortly, and Duran participated for an hour during the game held in Dubai.
Zenit boss Sergei Semak provided insights into Duran's performance, emphasizing the player's need for enhanced physical condition. "As I've already said, his qualities are clear," Semak remarked. "He's a player who's good on the ball, he's quick, but he needs to get into shape and get used to the team, and his teammates need to get used to him."
Semak further explained that Duran requires time to adapt to match rhythms and training routines at Zenit. "He needs to find his match rhythm and get used to our training, he'll definitely improve," the manager added. Initially planned for 45 minutes, Duran's playing time was extended to 60 minutes due to his overall well-being during the match.
Duran's Club Journey Since Leaving Aston Villa
Zenit represents Duran's third club since his departure from Aston Villa. In January of the previous year, Villa sold him to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr for a fee of £71 million. After a brief five-month stint at Al-Nassr, Duran moved to Fenerbahce on loan in July, only to transition to Zenit on another loan deal earlier this month.
Duran expressed his motivations for joining Zenit, citing the club's appeal and the developmental challenge. "I decided to move to Zenit because of the club, and the challenge," he stated. "It will help my development as a player, and I want to be part of the team. The club wanted me here, and that made me want to be here."
He also outlined his ambitions with the Russian club, aiming to contribute significantly to their success. "I always strive to be number one and I will do my best to take the team to the championship title and other trophies," Duran added. "I want to score lots of goals and help the team move forward."
