Spalletti Sees a Striker in McKennie as Juventus Boss Questions Jonathan David Profile
Luciano Spalletti does not often deal in hypotheticals, but after Juventus’ commanding 3-0 win over Napoli, the Bianconeri coach allowed himself a moment of imagination. As he reflected on the performance at the Allianz Stadium, Spalletti suggested that one of his most trusted midfielders, USMNT star Weston McKennie, possesses all the qualities to thrive not just in midfield, but as a central striker.
It was a comment that raised eyebrows, yet it spoke volumes about how highly Spalletti rates McKennie’s all-action display. At the same time, the Juventus boss offered a more measured and, at times, blunt assessment of Jonathan David. Despite the Canadian finding the net, Spalletti identified a clear weakness in his overall game, especially when compared to Napoli forward Rasmus Hojlund.
McKennie praised as a “perfect striker” after Napoli win
Weston McKennie has built his Juventus career on adaptability. Under multiple managers, he has played as a central midfielder, wing-back, wide midfielder and even in advanced roles supporting the attack. Against Napoli, he once again showcased why Spalletti trusts him in big matches.
The American international was relentless. He pressed, he tackled, he attacked second balls and constantly disrupted Napoli’s rhythm. Speaking to Sky Sport after the match, Spalletti could not hide his admiration, going as far as to suggest that McKennie could excel as a traditional number nine.
“McKennie is a perfect central striker, one of the strongest as a centre-forward,” Spalletti said. “He fights, he is strong in the air, and he has an impressive leap. He plays to get results because he makes decisions. He would be a perfect striker.”
It was not a throwaway line. In Spalletti’s eyes, McKennie embodies the kind of forward who gives defenders no rest. He may not be a natural finisher in the classic sense, but his physicality, timing and willingness to battle would, according to his coach, translate seamlessly into a striking role.
For Juventus supporters, the comment underlined McKennie’s importance in the current project. He may not always grab headlines, but his intensity sets the tone. In a match that had significant implications for the Serie A title race, McKennie’s contribution went far beyond statistics.
Jonathan David scores but draws tactical criticism
Juventus FC v SSC Napoli – Serie A McKennie
While McKennie was praised for what he could hypothetically become, Jonathan David was assessed for what he currently is. The Canadian striker opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a sharp, instinctive finish, the kind of goal that strikers are judged on first and foremost.
“David is a strong player, and tonight he showed that he can hold his own in a duel in the box, where there is no space,” Spalletti explained. “Those moments have to be taken away from the opponent.”
However, the praise came with clear limitations. Speaking later to DAZN, Spalletti was more direct about what he feels David lacks. The Juventus coach believes that while David is effective when chances fall his way, he struggles to provide the kind of physical reference point that allows the team to breathe under pressure.
In Spalletti’s system, a striker is not judged solely on goals. He is also expected to drop deep, take contact from defenders and make the ball playable for teammates higher up the pitch. That is where David, in the coach’s view, falls short.
Spalletti highlights Hojlund comparison
To underline his argument, Spalletti pointed to Napoli forward Rasmus Hojlund as a contrasting profile. The Danish striker, known for his strength and willingness to engage physically with centre-backs, represents the type of forward Spalletti believes his side is missing.
“There are strikers like Hojlund who drop into midfield, you smash the ball into them, and they still make it playable,” Spalletti said. “That is something we do not have.”
The comparison was not intended to dismiss David entirely. Instead, it highlighted the tactical balance Spalletti seeks. David is effective in front of goal, but when Juventus are under sustained pressure, the coach feels the team lacks a striker who can hold the ball, absorb contact and bring others into play.
“David is very strong, but he cannot do that kind of job,” Spalletti added. “He is fine for scoring goals, but when you look further, you also need someone who battles physically with the centre-back.”
It was an honest assessment, one that reflects the fine margins at the top of Serie A. Goals matter, but so does control, especially in high-stakes matches.
Juventus keep heads above water in title race
FBL-ITA-SERIE A-JUVENTUS-NAPOLI
Despite the critique, Spalletti was careful to stress that results ultimately dictate satisfaction. As long as David continues to score and Juventus maintain their defensive solidity, the system can function.
“If the team manages not to concede goals and David keeps scoring, like he is now, then we will still keep our heads above the water, we can breathe, and everything is perfect,” he said.
The victory over Napoli was crucial. Juventus remain within touching distance of the Serie A leaders, and while a 10-point gap is significant, performances like this suggest the race is not yet over. Late goals from Kenan Yildiz and Filip Kostic added gloss to the scoreline, but Spalletti was quick to remind everyone that the match was “always open” due to missed chances earlier on.
That realism is typical of the Italian coach. He enjoyed the win, but he also saw areas that still need refinement. The forward line, in particular, remains a work in progress.
McKennie symbolises Spalletti vision
In many ways, Spalletti’s comments about McKennie and David reveal his broader football philosophy. He values players who embrace the physical side of the game, who make sacrifices for the team and who understand that football is not just about flair or goals.
McKennie, with his energy and versatility, fits that vision perfectly. David, for all his finishing ability, is still being challenged to evolve. The contrast between the two players is telling.
Juventus may have won comfortably on the scoreboard, but Spalletti’s post-match reflections showed a manager still searching for balance. Praise and criticism were delivered in equal measure, driven not by ego, but by a desire to push his team closer to perfection.
As the season progresses, those comments may linger. McKennie as a striker might remain hypothetical, but the message is clear. At Juventus, effort, physicality and tactical intelligence are non-negotiable, and even goalscorers are not exempt from scrutiny.
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