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Analyzing Luciano Spalletti's Tactical Insights on Weston McKennie and Jonathan David

Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti lauds USMNT star Weston McKennie, tipping him as a potential central striker, while pointing out tactical weaknesses in Jonathan David's game. Dive into the strategic analysis following Juve's 3-0 victory over Napoli.

Analyzing Luciano Spalletti's Tactical Insights on Weston McKennie and Jonathan David

Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has heaped praise on USMNT star Weston McKennie, claiming the midfielder has all the attributes to be a "perfect central striker" following the Bianconeri's emphatic 3-0 victory over Napoli. Spalletti also highlighted a significant limitation in the game of goalscorer Jonathan David, comparing him unfavourably to Napoli forward Rasmus Hojlund despite the Canadian’s crucial strike.Spalletti was full of admiration for McKennie’s performance during Sunday’s high-stakes clash at the Allianz Stadium. The American midfielder, who has become a utility man under the Italian coach, was instrumental in a win that kept Juventus firmly in the Serie A title hunt. Speaking to Sky Sport, Spalletti suggested that McKennie’s skillset is so complete that he could easily operate as a traditional number nine."McKennie is a perfect central striker, one of the strongest as a centre-forward," Spalletti said. "He fights, he’s strong in the air, and he’s got an impressive leap. He plays to get results because he makes decisions. He would be a perfect striker."While McKennie received glowing praise for his hypothetical striker qualities, actual striker David faced a more mixed review. The Canadian international opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a sharp finish, a moment Spalletti described as a "proper striker" goal."David is a strong player, and tonight he showed that he can hold his own in a duel in the box, where there’s no space, so it has to be taken away from the opponent," Spalletti noted. "If you put all your strength into those moments, it’s fine, otherwise you don’t get there."However, speaking to DAZN, the Juventus boss was blunt about what David cannot do. He pinpointed the forward's inability to drop deep and act as a physical focal point for the team to play off - a trait Spalletti seemingly covets to relieve pressure during tough matches.Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!To illustrate his point, Spalletti drew a direct comparison with Napoli’s Hojlund, who featured for the visitors. The Danish forward’s style of play represents a profile that Spalletti feels is currently missing from his own squad."There are strikers like Hojlund who drop into midfield, you smash the ball into them, and they still make it playable," Spalletti explained. "That’s something we don’t have. David is fine for scoring goals, but when you look further, you also need someone who battles physically with the centre-back."We don’t need a striker to score goals, but for that kind of job. David is very strong, but he can’t do that kind of job. If the team manages not to concede goals and David keeps scoring, like he is now. Then we’ll still keep our heads above the water we can breathe, and everything is perfect.”Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingDespite the tactical critique, Spalletti admitted that as long as David continues to find the net, the team can function. The victory over Antonio Conte’s Napoli was vital, keeping Juventus within 10 points of the league leaders."If the team manages not to concede goals and David keeps scoring, like he is now, then we’ll still keep our heads above the water, we can breathe, and everything is perfect," Spalletti concluded.The 3-0 scoreline, glossed by late goals from Kenan Yildiz and Filip Kostic, suggested a comfortable evening, but Spalletti warned that the match was "always open" due to missed chances earlier in the game. With the win, Juventus have breathed new life into their campaign, even if their manager is still searching for tactical perfection in his forward line.

1

Weston McKennie: The Perfect Central Striker?

After Juventus' win over Napoli, Spalletti commended Weston McKennie's performance, suggesting the midfielder could excel as a traditional number nine. Highlighting McKennie's fighting spirit, aerial ability, and decision-making, Spalletti sees him as a complete package for the striker role.

2

Jonathan David's Striking Prowess and Limitations

While acknowledging Jonathan David's goal-scoring prowess with a 'proper striker' finish against Napoli, Spalletti also observed a key weakness in the Canadian's game. David's inability to drop deep and act as a physical focal point, akin to Napoli's Hojlund, drew Spalletti's tactical critique.

3

The Tactically Missing Element

Spalletti emphasized the importance of having a striker who can contribute beyond goals, citing the need for a player like Hojlund who can battle physically with defenders and provide a link-up option. Despite David's scoring ability, Spalletti outlined the specific roles he believes the team requires for tactical balance.

4

Balancing Goals and Tactical Perfection

Acknowledging the significance of David's goals in helping the team secure victories, Spalletti emphasized the need for a well-rounded approach to achieve tactical balance. While content with the 3-0 win over Napoli, Spalletti remains committed to refining Juventus' forward line for optimal performance.

Published on Jan 26, 2026
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