Colombian striker, Jhon Duran has shocked the football world by planning a 600-mile round-trip commute from Bahrain to Saudi Arabia after completing his £70million transfer to Al-Nassr from Aston Villa.
Duran Chooses Bahrain Over Saudi Arabia
After being officially unveiled at Al-Nassr and handed the No. 9 shirt, the 21-year-old has informed his new club that he wants to live in Bahrain instead of Saudi Arabia.
His decision mirrors that of former Al-Ettifaq manager, Steven Gerrard and ex-captain Jordan Henderson, who also chose to reside in Bahrain during their time in the Saudi Pro League.
However, while Al-Ettifaq’s training ground in Dammam was just an hour’s drive from Bahrain, Al-Nassr’s base on the outskirts of Riyadh is over 300 miles away.
A scheduled flight from Bahrain to Riyadh takes 1 hour and 20 minutes, meaning Duran will face a grueling 600-mile commute every matchday and training session.
Why Is Jhon Duran Avoiding Saudi Arabia?
One of the major factors behind Duran’s decision is uncertainty over Saudi Arabia’s laws regarding cohabitation.
Under Islamic law, unmarried couples living together is discouraged, and private landlords often require proof of marriage before renting out property.
While the law is not always enforced—Cristiano Ronaldo currently lives in Saudi Arabia with his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez—Duran appears unwilling to take any risks.
He Can Afford the Commute!
Duran’s decision to live in Bahrain might seem extreme, but his massive tax-free contract ensures he can afford the luxury of flying in for work.
The former Aston Villa star will reportedly earn:
- £16.7 million per year
- £1.4 million per month
- £321,000 per week
- £46,000 per day
- £1,900 per hour
- £31 per minute
- 52p per second
Jhon Duran had only signed a contract extension with Aston Villa in October 2024 that would have kept him at the club until 2030.
However, with 20 goals in 78 appearances, he attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, leading to his record-breaking move.
