Ex-footballer Manchester United told about the madness of the failed newcomer “Zenit”

Former midfielder “Manchester United” Brazilian Fred called ex-Zenit striker Colombian John Duran the most crazy partner in his career, his words lead Fanatik.

The Brazilian was asked about the craziest and craziest partner of his career, to which he replied: Duran is definitely John Duran. He doesn’t care, he doesn’t take anything seriously. He's very funny and funny, he's actually a good guy. We would say to him, ‘Come on, Duran, let’s go to training,’ and he would say, ‘Guys, I’m already rich, I don’t have to run.’ And then I went to the infirmary to get out of work.”.

Fred also recalled a conversation with Duran before his loan at Zenit: "I was teasing him: 'Wow, now you're going to make even more money.'" He said, "Bro, the more, the better."

Fred and Duran were teammates in Turkish Fenerbahce.

The 22-year-old Colombian joined the St. Petersburg club in February 2026 on loan from the Saudi al-Nasra. For six months, Duran spent 9 matches for Zenit and scored 2 goals.

He was Zenit's most expensive player, but after four games his value fell by almost a quarter to €25m. Now, according to the portal Transfermarkt, its cost is €15 million.

Coach “Zenit” Anatoly Tymoshchuk then explained the failed game of the Colombian that he was “possibly not in the best condition.” And the former coach of “Lokomotiv” Yuri Semin called the invitation of the striker a mistake: “Useless player was, he spent time and money, and the efficiency is very low.”.

Duran was summoned to the extended Colombia squad for the 2026 World Cup in the spring but missed the first training session. He did not enter the tournament and did not enter. In total for the Colombian team, he played 17 matches and scored three goals.

In July, Duran leased to the Portuguese Benfica.