🔎 Scouting Sessions: Canadian sensation being chased by top clubs | OneFootball

Jonathan David (Lille)

Having arrived late into the game, Jonathan David is already at centre stage for club and country.

But who is the Canadian, what are his strengths and why is he generating so much excitement?

History

Originally born in New York to Haitian parents, David moved back to Haiti with his family until the age of six before they later chose to settle in Ottawa, Canada.

And after impressing for local outfit Ottawa internationals, the teenager was signed by Belgian side Gent in 2018 where he quickly became an influential first-team figure.

His ascent would continue when French club Lille paid €30m for his signature just two years later, with the Canadian scoring 13 goals as Les Dogues won their first domestic title in ten years.

Style of play

David is most natural when leading the line, although his technical quality and vision render him equally as effective when dropping deep and bringing others into play.

The 22-year-old is elegant in possession but his stocky, powerful frame means he can match defenders physically when needed, in addition to finishing capably on both feet.

He is also an exciting proposition for managers with modern styles thanks to his intelligent pressing of defenders which regularly pays dividends under Jocelyn Gourvennec.

Compared to his Lille team-mates this season, he has:

If you’re looking for a centre forward who can do it all; you’ve found him.

Future prospects

Like Nicolas Pépé and Victor Osimhen before him at the Stade Pierre Mauroy, David will be the subject of fierce transfer interest this summer should his current form continue.

Questions have been asked of the Canadian with each step up but they have been answered emphatically with goals, assists and leadership all on display.

Young strikers with high potential are few and far between at the highest level, but the 22-year-old already looks every part of that description and more.