Jhon Duran hails teammate Cristiano Ronaldo as football’s ‘best’

New Al-Nassr signing Jhon Duran has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as football’s biggest name, expressing excitement about playing alongside him.

Duran went ahead to call the Portuguese star the “best player in the world” and “the most important name in football.”

The Colombian, who joined the Saudi Pro League club from Aston Villa, sees his move as an opportunity to develop under the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

“I’m really happy to play with and learn from the best player in the world. He’s the best sportsperson in the world.

“I think he’s the best footballer,” Duran told Al-Nassr’s official DAZN channel.

The 20-year-old Colombian forward aims to gain valuable experience from Ronaldo, who remains a key figure for both club and country despite approaching his 40th birthday.

“I hope that I can see some action soon and learn everything that he can teach me and follow in his footsteps, which is the most important thing,” he added.

Duran dismissed suggestions that his move to Saudi Arabia was financially motivated, insisting the league’s rapid growth influenced his decision.

“This league is heading in an important direction. There are many stars from Europe who were at big teams and are now here,” he said.

Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr in 2023, remains the face of the Saudi Pro League and is reportedly considering extending his contract beyond this summer.