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[Official] Lee Kang-in pierces, 'Ice Man' freezes! ATM urgently transfuses top striker David: "Will he revive after receiving LEE's kill pass?"

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Jonathan David. /Photo=Atletico Madrid official SNS screenshot
Jonathan David. /Photo=Atletico Madrid official SNS screenshot

Atletico Madrid has filled the void in its forward line by loaning Canadian national team striker Jonathan David (26). Expectations are high for a new attacking synergy created by Lee Kang-in (25)'s precise "kill pass" and David's sharp ability to penetrate space.

On the 2nd (Korean time), Atletico announced via its official club website that it had loaned striker David from Juventus for one season.

David completed all contract procedures after passing a medical test at Arturo Soriano University Hospital in Madrid. The deal includes a full transfer option worth 25 million euros (approximately 39.5 billion won).

David made his professional debut with Belgian club KAA Gent, where he demonstrated his potential with 83 matches, 37 goals, and 15 assists. He then spent five seasons with French side LOSC Lille, recording 232 matches, 109 goals, and 31 assists while leading the team to a Ligue 1 title during his prime years.

Jonathan David in an Atletico Madrid jersey. /Photo=Atletico Madrid official SNS screenshot
Jonathan David in an Atletico Madrid jersey. /Photo=Atletico Madrid official SNS screenshot

Known for his calm demeanor in front of goal, he earned the nickname "Ice Man." He is also Canada's all-time top scorer with 42 goals in 73 A-international matches. At the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers, he scored a hat-trick against Qatar, leading his country to the round of 16.

However, since joining Juventus on a free transfer last season, he managed only 8 goals and 5 assists in 46 official matches, marking his first sub-10 goal tally since his professional debut amid a slump.

Currently, Atletico lacks sufficient forward resources due to injuries to traditional striker Alexander Sørloth and declining fitness of Julian Alvarez. As a result, manager Diego Simeone has resorted to desperate measures, such as deploying Lee Kang-in and Alex Baena as a striking duo in recent matches against Sevilla while using Ademola Lookman on the wing, effectively placing second-line players up front.

With David's arrival, known for his strength in penetrating space and making off-the-ball movements, Atletico has strengthened its attacking presence. Meanwhile, existing second-line players capable of playing wide roles, including Lee Kang-in, are expected to return to their original positions and generate flexible tactical synergy as needed.

Atletico Madrid forward Lee Kang-in. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Atletico Madrid forward Lee Kang-in. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

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*This content was translated by AI.

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