On Tuesday night, the Colombian forward made his first start at Villa Park in nearly a year, marking the occasion with a crucial second goal in Villa’s 2-0 Champions League victory over Bologna.
However, Duran’s celebration was short-lived as he was substituted immediately after scoring, replaced by Ollie Watkins. Frustrated, Duran kicked the back of a dugout seat, expressing his displeasure at being taken off.
Despite the outburst, Villa manager Unai Emery was not too concerned. Duran’s performance has been impressive, with seven goals across all competitions this season. This puts him ahead of Watkins, who has five goals, creating healthy competition within Villa’s striking options.
“Duran is on fire and delivering goals,” former England defender Matt Upson commented on BBC Radio 5 Live. “With both Duran and Watkins capable of scoring, Villa have great depth in the center-forward role.”
Duran is ‘Really Funny’
Just three weeks ago, Duran came off the bench to score the only goal against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, securing another memorable night for Aston Villa under the floodlights. Prior to the match against Bologna, his only start of the season had come in a Carabao Cup win against Wycombe Wanderers.
Against Bologna, Duran had five of Villa’s 16 attempts, including two shots on target. His second effort found the back of the net after an assist from Morgan Rogers, showcasing Duran’s ability to be in the right place at the right time.
“Duran has it all – technique, strength, and the ability to hold up play,” said Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans in an interview with TNT Sports. “He’s an all-round striker.”
On Duran’s frustrated reaction to being substituted, Tielemans added, “He’s really funny. The manager doesn’t mind. Everyone wants to play, and it’s all part of the game.”
With Villa having scored five goals in the Champions League this season, Duran has been responsible for two of them. Signed from Chicago Fire in an £18m deal in January 2023, the 19-year-old striker is proving to be an invaluable asset to Emery’s squad.
‘Under My Control’
Villa’s victory over Bologna coincides with Unai Emery’s upcoming two-year anniversary as manager. Since his appointment, Villa has gone from battling relegation to experiencing their best Premier League start in 26 years, all while impressing in Europe.
Duran, a key player in Villa’s plans for the future, has been backed by Emery despite his reaction to being substituted. When asked if he was concerned about Duran’s behavior, Emery responded, “No, it’s all under my control. Managing player reactions is part of the job.”
Emery added, “In the dressing room, we emphasize respect for our values, maturity, and responsibility. Duran and other players are learning, but it’s something I manage.”
Watkins or Duran – Who Will Start Next?
With Aston Villa set to face Club Brugge in the Champions League on 6 November, a key question remains: who will start up front? Both Duran and Watkins have shown they can deliver when called upon.
“Duran played very well and scored a great goal,” Emery said of his striker’s performance against Bologna. “His acceleration and finishing were fantastic. Sometimes we’ll play both Duran and Watkins together, but when they play individually as they did today, it’s best for the team.”
Upson believes Duran has a bright future at Aston Villa, commenting, “Duran didn’t have many opportunities, but he showed he’s a natural goal-scorer and always ready when the chance comes.”
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