Sports
‘What hurt me the most, but I appreciate Juventus celebration’ after 3-0 victory
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Jonathan David of Juventus scores 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)
Jonathan David reveals what ‘hurt me the most’ after criticism of the missed penalty, as he ‘appreciates’ the Juventus celebrations this evening after a goal against Sassuolo.
The Bianconeri needed a boost after their disappointing weekend 1-1 draw with Lecce, where Jonathan David’s weak attempted Panenka penalty was saved.
There was some luck when Pierre Kalulu’s cross was deflected in off Tarik Muharemovic, but Juve dominated throughout and made it count with Fabio Miretti and David goals.
David grateful for Juventus support after criticism
“I think it’s a good goal, it comes at the right time for myself and the team,” David told DAZN Italia.
“At the end of the day, the most important thing is that we get back on the winning track.”
When David scored, the entire squad ran over to celebrate the end of his 16-match Serie A goal drought, including coach Luciano Spalletti and the players who were on the bench.
“Yeah, I saw him there. It’s a nice touch, everyone here is so supportive of me and the team, so it’s a great omen that everyone can celebrate together. I really appreciate this,” smiled the Canadian.
There was so much criticism from fans and the media after that missed penalty, which was a failed attempt at a Panenka.
“What hurt me the most after the missed penalty was that it felt like a loss, even though we drew. That’s what hurt me the most, as winning is the most important thing. After that, I know the games come fast, so I try to pass to the next game and focus on that.
“When I take penalties, I try to change and keep the goalkeeper guessing. I didn’t hit this one the way I wanted, and that’s why it didn’t go in.”
A goal and an assist for the Canadian today 🔥
Jonathan David is having a day 👏 pic.twitter.com/Zb9cZkXTVT
— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) January 6, 2026
This result keeps Juventus in joint fourth place with Roma, although Como are only three points behind and have a game in hand.
Miretti had not scored in Serie A since March 2025, when he was on loan at Genoa, but here he was playing in a more advanced trequartista role.
“Scoring with the Juventus jersey is always incredible, the last was nearly two years ago,” Miretti told DAZN Italia.
“I always played that role and I enjoy it, I’m happy with the performance, but above all for the victory.
“We’re happy for Jonny, as he’s a great player and deserves this. We are a really united group, so when people say things from the outside, we come together to protect whoever is getting attacked. We’re really pleased for the goal and his performance tonight.”
Juventus are back in action on Monday January 12 when hosting Jamie Vardy’s giant-killers Cremonese.
