In a puzzling tactical decision that has left pundits scratching their heads, Luciano Spalletti continues to place his trust in Juventus striker Jonathan David, much to the bewilderment of football analysts Massimo Mauro and Sandro Sabatini.
The Canadian international has become a regular fixture in the Bianconeri lineup this season, logging more minutes than any other Juventus center-forward. While injuries to Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik, combined with Lois Openda's dip in form, have certainly played a role in David's increased playing time, his performances have done little to silence the critics.
Sunday's 1-1 draw against Hellas Verona at the Allianz Stadium was the latest chapter in David's frustrating campaign. The 26-year-old endured a difficult first half, yet Spalletti opted to keep him on the pitch even after introducing Vlahovic at the break. Rather than replacing David, the manager chose to withdraw Khephren Thuram, pushing the Canadian into a deeper role as an attacking midfielder or second striker.
The tactical adjustment failed to spark the desired improvement, and Spalletti's subsequent substitution of Fabio Miretti did little to change the outcome. The manager later acknowledged the team's need for a genuine attacking midfielder capable of operating between the lines—a statement that has only fueled the debate surrounding David's continued presence in the starting eleven.
Italian journalist Sandro Sabatini was quick to voice his concerns. "Spalletti said they lack an attacking midfielder who can beat the man," Sabatini remarked during an appearance on Pressing. "The team has someone who can beat the man; he has a good predisposition, but playing with David is self-destructive."
Former Juventus midfielder Massimo Mauro echoed these sentiments, expressing disbelief at Spalletti's persistence with David, even when Vlahovic was available. "Who knows why Spalletti kept playing him," Mauro said. "I was at the stadium: the solution with David behind Vlahovic surprised me. They could have put Yildiz there and Boga on the left. But who knows, there must be a reason why he always plays."
As Juventus continue their search for consistency, the question remains: will Spalletti finally heed the advice of the pundits and reconsider his reliance on David, or will the Canadian continue to feature despite the growing criticism?