Jonathan David at Lille – one year too many?

Jonathan David’s (23) departure from Lille OSC was one of the most anticipated moves of the summer. However, the Canadian international surprisingly remained at the Stade Pierre Mauroy. This is now beginning to look like a mistake, for all parties. 

David scored 15 goals in Ligue 1 in the 2021/22 season. Last season was even more prolific. The Canadian scored 24 in 37 Ligue 1 games. Only Alexandre Lacazette and Kylian Mbappé bettered that total. The stars were aligned for a summer transfer, and keen to cash in, Lille set a €60m price tag. 

This figure ultimately proved prohibitive. Not only did David not leave, there wasn’t even significant interest. Having built up his reputation, David was ultimately priced out of a move. He is now struggling and is playing an increasingly peripheral role under Paulo Fonseca. 

With just four goals in all competitions, including two in Ligue 1, this season, David dropped to the bench for three consecutive matches before returning to the starting XI against Toulouse FC on Sunday. However, his confidence seems completely shot. Numerous glorious opportunities presented themselves to him, but he simply could not finish them. 

President Olivier Létang is hoping that the upcoming international break will help him rediscover his confidence and his goal-scoring touch. “David is in a difficult period with his stats, we won’t hide that, but these 15 days away with the national team will do him good to allow him to come back in top form,” said Lille’s president after the draw against Toulouse. For all parties, a return to form is a necessity, otherwise, it risks being one year too many at Lille for David. 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle