Jonathan David Joins Atletico Bench for Manchester United Clash

On Tuesday, Jonathan David was named on Atletico Madrid's bench for its Champions League clash with Manchester United at Riyadh Air Metropolitano as the Canadian striker's strong start in Spain continued under Diego Simeone after joining on loan from Juventus.

According to Canadian Soccer Daily, David scored three goals and provided one assist in his first three LaLiga appearances for Atletico. He added another assist in a 2-1 win over Deportivo Alaves before the European fixture.

Atletico entered the match after winning four of its previous five games in all competitions, while the club sought to recover from a 2-1 opening Champions League defeat away to Liverpool, according to Canadian Soccer Daily.

Simeone highlighted David's immediate contribution and the tactical qualities he brings to Atletico after arriving from Juventus. He also explained that the coaching staff studied his performances in France and Italy.

"He's had a huge impact on the team; in four games, he's scored three goals and provided one assist. He has something we didn't have: a striker who moves naturally to the right, and who does a great job defensively for the team," said Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid manager.

Simeone said Atletico wanted David to rediscover the form that made him successful at Lille rather than repeat the struggles he experienced during his Juventus period.

"We saw a lot of him at Juventus and Lille. When he arrived, we told him: we don't want the Juventus player, but the one who played in France and managed to reach a team like Juventus. We want that, and we'll work together to help you find that truly important player," said Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid manager.

The Atletico coach is also overseeing a squad transition after seven players left and five new players arrived during the summer transfer window. Simeone described the team as still developing its identity.

"I see the team growing, it is a team under construction. Five new players have arrived and seven have left. Gradually, we are starting to understand what they can give us for the good of the team, and they are starting to understand what it means to play for Atletico. We are on this path and we hope to achieve the goals set by the club," said Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid manager.

According to Canadian Soccer Daily, Atletico had not lost in their previous four competitive meetings with Manchester United, including the 2021-22 Champions League round of 16 when Atletico advanced after a 1-0 win at Old Trafford.