Jonathan David walked off to a standing ovation at the Metropolitano, having helped Atlético Madrid beat Real Madrid 2-1 and given Diego Simeone another reason to trust his late-window signing. The Canadian striker struck Atlético’s second goal before being replaced in the 62nd minute, while Julian Alvarez, the man sent on in his place, received a far colder reaction from the home support.
David makes an immediate impact in Madrid
David arrived at Atlético on loan during the final hours of the transfer window, seeking a fresh start after a difficult previous campaign with Juventus. The 26-year-old has quickly found it under Simeone.
Against Real, David was alert to Giuliano Simeone’s low delivery and finished for his third goal in as many Liga appearances. It was another sharp display from a forward whose early work has brought both goals and an appetite for defending, two qualities valued highly by Atlético’s coach.
“I am very happy for Jonathan,” Simeone said after the derby. “He gives us the competition that allows us to compete as far as possible.”
A different role from his Juventus spell
David’s start in Spain already contrasts sharply with his time in Turin. He scored seven goals in all competitions for Juventus last season, and has reached almost half that total after only three league matches for Atlético.
The tactical setting has also changed. At Juventus, David operated as the lone central striker. Atlético have used him alongside another forward through the middle, with Kang-in Lee partnering him in the derby.
That support has helped provide a more lively and effective platform for the former Lille forward, whose movement and pressing have quickly won over his new surroundings.
Alvarez remains part of the contest
David knows the competition will not disappear. Alvarez’s difficult reception from the crowd after replacing him showed the tension around the Argentine’s current form, but Simeone has stressed that his striker has begun to respond following the derby.
For now, though, David has made himself impossible to ignore: three league matches, three goals, and a performance against Real Madrid that brought the Metropolitano to its feet.
