McKennie Proves His Value to Juventus After Nearly Leaving Twice

Weston McKennie has shown his importance to Juventus once again, scoring his third Champions League goal in eight appearances. However, winning over new manager Thiago Motta was no easy task for the American midfielder, who came close to departing the club on two separate occasions.

The U.S. national team player opened the scoring in Juventus’ Champions League knockout round playoff first leg against PSV Eindhoven. This brought his goal tally for the season to five in 28 matches across all competitions.

McKennie’s status at Juventus has been uncertain more than once since joining from Schalke in 2020 for €20 million. In summer 2023, he was left out of the club’s U.S. preseason tour as they attempted to sell him following a loan spell at Leeds. Though he was eventually reintegrated into the squad for the 2023-24 season under Massimiliano Allegri.

A similar situation arose last summer after Motta’s arrival, with McKennie again frozen out amid stalled contract talks. But after the player rejected transfer proposals and expressed his desire to stay, Juventus reopened negotiations and Motta agreed to include him in his plans.

McKennie has now started Juventus’ last nine Serie A matches, playing the full 90 minutes in seven of them. Motta seems to have recognized the American’s versatility to play multiple positions and consistent performances make him an invaluable squad member for the Bianconeri.