Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has offered a glowing assessment of midfielder Tommaso David's qualities following a 0-0 draw with AC Milan, a result that keeps the Bianconeri in the race for a top-four Serie A finish. Speaking to multiple media outlets after the match at San Siro, Spalletti highlighted David's technical ability and work rate, describing him as a "golden boy" for the team's cause.
The draw was a tactical affair, with Juventus seeing more of the ball but creating few clear chances beyond a disallowed goal for Marcus Thuram. Spalletti admitted his side were "too slow and predictable" in the first half but expressed satisfaction with a point against a dangerous opponent. The result leaves Juventus needing to secure victories in their final matches to guarantee Champions League qualification, with Roma and Como applying pressure from below.
Spalletti's most detailed comments were reserved for David. In his analysis for Sky Sports, he said, "He has played several top-level matches because he is a clean footballer. He manages, even in tight spaces, with his technical quality and his sensitivity." The manager noted that physical pressure can limit David's ability to beat a man, but he praised the player's relentless running and contribution. "He is a golden boy because he runs so much and gives a lot to the team's cause," Spalletti added.
Further elaborating to DAZN, Spalletti explained David's role within the squad's structure. "If there isn't great physical contact, he can get out of situations with technical quality," he said. "He is a player who runs a lot, for dynamism, continuity, and pressure. He is a player who always gives you the result of his match." Spalletti also acknowledged a tactical shortfall, stating the team needed to create more density around David in the first half, leaving him isolated.
The manager also provided updates on other squad members. He confirmed that striker Dusan Vlahovic, returning from a long injury, was only fit for a brief cameo due to the risk of re-injury, but suggested the Serbian would be important for the crucial final games. Regarding young winger Kenan Yildiz, Spalletti revealed the player had trained very little during the week and lacked match fitness, impacting his performance off the bench.
Looking ahead, Spalletti emphasized the need for responsibility in the season's decisive phase. "We must consolidate our path, we must highlight the culture of self-discipline," he told DAZN. He acknowledged the threat posed by rivals but focused on his team's internal standards. The comments on David, a consistent starter this season, underscore the manager's reliance on the midfielder's composed playing style as Juventus seeks to navigate a tight Serie A run-in and secure a return to Europe's premier club competition.
