Monchi, on the ‘new Falcao’: ”There are 40 clubs that want him”

He Aston Villa of Unai Emery has come to stay. Or at least that was the intention of the Spanish coach, who returned a historic England player to the top of the classification and to Champions League. Now the goal is to compete for titles and win one.

Having to juggle up to four competitions, Emery knows better than anyone that it is not enough to have a squad of 14-15 players playing every game, but needs to be 18-20 giving quality minutes to the team.

One of the most surprising at the beginning of the campaign in that sense is John Duranthe young 20-year-old Colombian striker, who in three games scored two goals, came off the bench. A role similar to the one he already has in the senior team.

Tough competition with Ollie Watkins

For any coach having two important forwards is a blessing, but for Durán, who starts at a disadvantage against Watkinsis a problem and wants to leave the club this summer. However, Monchi, sports director of the Birmingham team, clarified in statements to ‘The Athletic’ why he did not appear. ”If there’s one club that truly believes Durán can be one of the best forwards in the world, it’s Aston Villa. At least 40 clubs want Durán“, said.

Although he admits that the player wants to leave, he is also happy that he is permanently on the villain team. “He wants to leave, yes. Just because he wants to play, normal. But now everything is okay, he is happy,” added Monchi, who also pointed out that it is difficult to manage two high-level attackers in the squad. “Managing Watkins and Durán is not easy, but it is the best for the team. If you have two good forwards, it is better than just one.”

From his appearance he is known as the ‘new tiger’, the heir of Radamel Falcaowith whom he shares the choice and with whom he has reference. He scored his best numbers in 2022 in the American league with eight goals in 27 games in the ranking of Chicago Fire. He is a quick, powerful striker with a goal in mind.