Luciano Spalletti has made it clear that Jonathan David is not among Juventus’s first-choice attacking options. The Canadian forward has struggled to meet expectations during the opening months of the season, and Spalletti’s words following the goalless derby against Torino have shed light on his current standing in the squad.
Calciomercato report how, speaking after the match, Spalletti described David as a striker best suited for late-game scenarios. “Inside the penalty area, he has those specific qualities,” said the Juventus manager. “He’s a player for those minutes when the opposing team sits deep.” His comments came after David started once again on the bench, replacing an exhausted Dusan Vlahovic midway through the second half.
From Summer Star Signing to Squad Option
David’s status within the team has shifted significantly since his summer arrival. Initially presented as a marquee signing, secured on a free transfer and given a substantial salary of around six million euros per season, the former Lille striker was expected to become a central figure in Juventus’s attack. Many believed he would be the natural successor to Vlahovic, whose future was uncertain at the time.
However, the on-field reality has been underwhelming. So far this season, David has made 14 appearances—only half of them as a starter—totalling 605 minutes of play. He has scored one goal, on the opening day against Parma, and registered one assist in the Derby d’Italia against Inter. For a player renowned for his finishing ability and consistency with both Lille and the Canadian national team, these figures highlight an unconvincing start.
Spalletti’s Approach and Future Outlook
Neither under Igor Tudor nor under Spalletti has David displayed the form that made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards. The Juventus coach now sees him as a potential impact substitute rather than a first-team regular—an option to introduce when opponents drop deep and space becomes scarce.
To win back a more prominent role, David will need to find rhythm, improve his sharpness, and rediscover his eye for goal. His performances so far have been laboured, and his fitness appears below optimal levels. The coming weeks could therefore prove decisive for his future.
Possible Departure in January?
As uncertainty grows, so do transfer rumours. Reports abroad have linked David with moves to Tottenham and Bayern Munich, with preliminary contact allegedly made by his representatives. A January exit cannot be ruled out entirely. While such a move might appear as an admission of failure from Juventus, it could also represent a pragmatic solution—a chance to correct a misjudged signing before it becomes a long-term burden.
Much will depend on the situation surrounding Vlahovic, as Juventus can ill afford to lose both strikers in one window. Nonetheless, the message from Spalletti is clear: David is not central to his plans, and a future away from Turin is becoming increasingly plausible.
