Weston McKennie delivered a standout performance for Juventus over the weekend, netting a goal in a commanding 4-1 victory over Parma. This latest contribution underscores a remarkable period of form for the American midfielder, who has become an indispensable figure for the Turin-based club.
A Player Reborn Under Spalletti's Guidance
Juventus have previously attempted to offload Weston McKennie, including a loan spell at Leeds United that saw him return after just six months. Upon his comeback, he faced the symbolic slight of an emptied locker and a reassigned parking spot. Despite these challenges, McKennie persevered, and his resilience is now paying dividends for the Old Lady.
Since the start of 2026, the 27-year-old has scored four times in eight appearances, emerging as a pivotal force behind Juventus's recent upturn. Under the tutelage of Luciano Spalletti, a tactically innovative coach, McKennie has flourished. Spalletti, known for his Scudetto-winning tenure at Napoli, advocates a fluid approach, stating systems are obsolete in modern football and emphasising exploiting spaces left by opponents.
The Ultimate Utility Man
McKennie epitomises Spalletti's philosophy as a versatile, position-less player. Last season, he featured in roles ranging from left back to centre forward, showcasing his adaptability. Since Spalletti's arrival in October, he has frequently operated on the right side, with the freedom to drift inside, link play, and act as a secondary striker. This flexibility makes him a perfect fit for Spalletti's vision, with the coach praising his decision-making and suggesting he could excel as a striker.
In the recent win over Parma, McKennie was instrumental, scoring in the 37th minute and driving Juventus to one of their best performances this season. Reflecting on his synergy with Spalletti, McKennie remarked it's unlike any coaching relationship he has experienced, highlighting the mutual trust and understanding.
Uncertainty Looms for USMNT Role
Despite his club success, McKennie's position with the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) remains unclear. US coach Gregg Berhalter omitted him from recent friendlies, citing familiarity with his abilities, a decision that puzzled many given limited preparation time in 2025. As the World Cup approaches, questions persist about how McKennie will integrate into the lineup.
Pochettino appears hesitant to deploy him in deep-lying midfield roles, potentially pushing him forward into a dual-No 10 position. However, this area is crowded with talents like Christian Pulisic and Gio Reyna, intensifying competition. Alternatively, McKennie could mirror his Juventus role on the right, but Pochettino has favoured other players such as Sergiño Dest there.
Proving Doubters Wrong
McKennie has a history of overcoming skepticism, having faced speculation about his Juventus future almost annually. Each time, he has fought his way back into contention, and under Spalletti, he is finally receiving the recognition he deserves. Talks for a new contract at Juventus are underway, amid rumours linking him to Serie A rivals like Milan and Napoli, though his agent has dismissed these as false.
As Juventus rebuilds, McKennie is positioning himself as a cornerstone of Spalletti's project. His value on the pitch is undeniable, and if he secures a new deal, it might just be the moment to reclaim that parking spot, symbolising his hard-earned place at the club.
