Juventus’ goal celebration sends message of support to David

Jonathan David broke his 135-day Serie A drought in a 3-0 win over Sassuolo, and the Juventus players’ reaction reflected their backing of the Canadian striker.

Canada international David contributed to Juventus’ 3-0 win over Sassuolo on Tuesday night with a goal and an assist.

David started the second consecutive match even after receiving strong criticism from the fans and the media for an awkward penalty kick miss in the previous match against Lecce, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Juventus’ support for David

SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, celebrates his team’s third goal, scored by Jonathan David during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

However, when he scored the third goal for Juventus last night, the entire squad ran to hug him, and even those on the bench and coach Luciano Spalletti rushed onto the pitch.

David felt ‘protected’

SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

The team’s reaction has been highlighted by Italian newspapers after the match, while Spalletti explained: “Everyone had taken a firm stance, because it’s different when you are inside a situation, so when you receive all those insults and comments, I would’ve been surprised if the team hadn’t acted as a shield to protect him.

“He sensed that during the last few days, and put in a great performance tonight. Seeing as he scored a goal too, that just confirmed how many friends he has in the locker room.”