Weston McKennie, the 25-year-old midfielder, is eager to show Juventus and its fans that he is worthy of their trust and support. After joining the 36-time Italian champion for the 2020-21 season, McKennie faced a setback with a broken foot, which resulted in his loan to Leeds United last January. Unfortunately, his presence couldn’t save the English club from relegation. Nevertheless, McKennie has returned to Juventus this summer, determined to make his mark. He has already made significant progress, making his first start for the team in a 2-0 victory against Empoli.
During a news conference at the U.S. national team camp in St. Louis, McKennie expressed the challenges he faced upon his return to Juventus. The club went through a time of crisis and was penalized with a 10-point deduction in the standings due to financial violations. As a result, they missed out on the Champions League and were subsequently banned from all UEFA competitions. McKennie acknowledges that this brought him back to square one. However, he sees it as an opportunity to prove himself once again.
McKennie’s upbringing has prepared him well for the constant changes in his career. Growing up in a military family, with his father serving in the U.S. Air Force, McKennie became accustomed to moving frequently. This nomadic lifestyle taught him how to adapt to new environments, cultures, and situations. He believes that this experience has been beneficial in his football career, allowing him to easily transition between different teams and countries.
Both McKennie and his Juventus teammate Timothy Weah have experienced playing out of their natural positions since their time at the U.S. national team. Weah, the son of former FIFA Player of the Year George Weah, joined Juventus from Lille in July. While Weah is primarily a winger for the American team, McKennie plays as a central midfielder. However, at Juventus, both players have had to adjust to playing in different roles. McKennie humorously mentioned how they are currently filling the positions of starting right wingback and backup right wingback. Despite this, they embrace their versatility and the ability to adapt to various situations on the field.
McKennie and Weah’s understanding of each other’s playing style has greatly contributed to their chemistry on the field. Having played together in all four matches for the U.S. at the last World Cup, they have developed a strong connection. McKennie acknowledges that their familiarity with each other’s game makes their partnership even better now that they are both playing for Juventus. The opportunity to train together every day will only enhance their understanding of each other and their ability to perform as a team.
Beyond the field, McKennie and Weah share a close bond and friendship. McKennie jokingly admits that he can be a bit much for Weah at times, but their understanding and connection on the field make up for it. Having a travel partner like Weah in the national team camp allows McKennie to feel more at ease and comfortable.
The upcoming match against Uzbekistan marks the first game for Gregg Berhalter in his second term as coach of the U.S. national team. McKennie sees this as an opportunity to pick up where they left off under Berhalter’s guidance. The team performed well in the last World Cup, reaching the second round before being eliminated by the Netherlands. McKennie believes that they can build on that success and continue to grow under Berhalter’s leadership.
Weston McKennie’s determination to prove himself to Juventus and its fans is evident. Despite the challenges he has faced, he embraces the opportunity to start fresh and showcase his skills once again. His versatility and adaptability, along with his strong partnership with Timothy Weah, make him a valuable asset to both club and country. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, McKennie’s presence on the field will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.
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