LILLE — Canadian striker Jonathan David made it official Wednesday, confirming he is leaving France's Lille when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The news did not come as a surprise. His next club has been the subject of speculation for months.
But on Wednesday, the 25-year-old from Ottawa offered a personal farewell to Lille, the club he joined in August 2020 from Belgium's KAA Gent.
"I wanted you to hear it from me, After five years at the club it's time to say goodbye" David said in a social media video. "I spent five amazing years in Lille. I know it hasn't been the easiest. But I hope that my goals and my celebrations have brought you guys some joy and happiness. And it's been a long and fun ride."
David did not offer any clues to where he will land, although reports have suggested he wants to move to England's Premier League.
Canada will be watching with interest to see whether he joins a club that is taking part in the 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, which runs June 14 June to July 13 — at the same time as the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
David is Canada's leading men's goal-scorer with 32 goals in 61 international appearances. He has scored 109 goals in 231 games for Lille, including 25 in 48 appearances this season.
David reached the 100-goal milestone for Lille in December, scoring twice n a 3-1 win over Brest in Ligue 1 play.
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This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 14, 2025.
The Canadian Press
