Juventus have officially kicked off their summer transfer campaign by welcoming Jonathan David as their first new signing for the 2025/26 season. The Canadian striker, who arrives on a free transfer after the expiry of his contract with Lille, was introduced to the media today at the Allianz Stadium. Full of optimism and determination, David faced questions about his move to Turin, his role in the team, and his goals for the future.
Below are all the key moments and quotes from his first press conference as a Juventus player.
The First Days at Juventus
David opened up about the thrill of joining such a renowned club and his early experiences in Turin:
“It’s a great emotion to be at a club like Juve. The first week has gone really well – my teammates have helped me a lot.”
Why Choose Juventus?
The Canadian forward revealed how conversations with the club and its players played a decisive role in his decision:
“It was important for me to speak with the management, and I also talked with some teammates. There was strong interest from both sides for me to join. Juventus is a great club.”
His First Conversation With the Manager
David described his exciting first meeting with the new boss and the expectations set for him:
“The conversation with the manager was very positive. I’m new, so he asked me about my own expectations and told me his plans for me as a centre-forward. I like to take the initiative – my job is to score goals, and that’s what we talked about the most.”
On Setting Goal Targets
Confident about replicating his European form, David acknowledged the unique demands of Italian football:
“I’ve tried to be consistent in the last few years. I know Serie A is different – more tactical and defensive – but there are challenges for everyone. I see it as possible, I’ll have to work hard, but why not?”
Juventus Legends as Inspiration
David admitted he’s motivated by the long line of legendary strikers who have worn the Bianconeri shirt:
“Juve has had so many legends – Cristiano [Ronaldo], Dybala, Del Piero, Trezeguet, so many of them.”
On Choosing Serie A
David reflected on why he opted for Italy’s top flight at this stage of his career:
“Every league has its own challenges, and by choosing Juve I found myself in Serie A.”
Why Football?
Sharing his origins, David recalled how the game became central to his life from childhood:
“I started playing because my dad played, and in Haiti football was always what I did. Everyone played football. That’s how I started and I wanted to become a professional.”
His Childhood Idols
David looked back on the forwards he admired as a young footballer:
“When I was little I looked up to a lot of players: Drogba, Eto’o – I loved how they played. Now there are many great strikers.”
The Role of Hard Work and Faith
He stressed the importance of both dedication and belief in his journey to the top:
“We all had great ambition already in high school, but my success isn’t just down to that. I’m very religious and I believe becoming a professional takes commitment and faith.”
Why Shirt Number 30?
David’s choice of shirt number has a personal significance:
“I picked number 30 because it’s my dad’s birthday.”
Climbing Back to the Summit
David sees every new season as a chance for Juventus to aim for the very top:
“Every year can be the right one, the league is very difficult. You have to have the ambition to go all the way – that never changes.”
Nickname ‘Iceman’
Asked about his reputation for composure, David agreed it suits him:
“It works well – I’m very calm. That’ll help me in situations when there’s a lot of pressure. Keeping cool and staying focused is a big advantage.”
His Position
The new signing confirmed his tactical role is still being discussed, but for now he’s set to lead the line:
“Yes, we’re working on tactics. It will depend on the manager, but right now I’m playing as a centre-forward.”
Competition for a Starting Spot
David is realistic about the challenge for places:
“There’s never a guarantee you’ll be a starter. You have to play and do your job – I don’t expect to be automatic first choice, but I’ll give my best.”
Scoring in the Big Games
He underlined his hunger to make an impact when it matters most:
“I’m very competitive, and like all strikers, I love scoring goals. That’s the game – they go together.”
Ambitions for the Future
David is staying grounded but focused on reaching the highest levels:
“I’m not talking about the Ballon d’Or, but I chose this club for its big ambitions and because I have great ambitions too. I want to work for the team and become one of the best strikers in the world.”
Ready for the Challenge
David finished with a message of readiness and commitment:
“Of course, I came here for this. I know what the club expects, and I’m ready to meet those expectations.”
