Weston McKennie: From Doubts to Success at Juventus
American midfielder Weston McKennie has become an integral part of Juventus, showcasing his versatility by playing in various positions. Recently, he participated in a charity event at the San Paolo Oratory in Turin, organized by his foundation “McKennie’s Magical Youth Mission”. During the event, he shared his thoughts with journalists.
McKennie expressed his joy in helping children, citing his personal experience with his nephew in Texas. He emphasized the importance of being a role model and giving back to the community, which aligns with his foundation’s goals.
Regarding his role at Juventus, McKennie stated, “The most important thing is to play, even if it means being a goalkeeper.” He highlighted his adaptability, having played in multiple positions throughout his career, including right-back and midfielder under Allegri’s management.
Reflecting on his journey, McKennie revealed, “Throughout my career, even as a child, many people didn’t believe in me. When I joined Juventus, some said the club was too big for me and that I’d never play.” He uses these doubts as motivation to prove himself.
Discussing his future, McKennie expressed his contentment at Juventus and in Turin. He said, “I want to stay here as long as possible, but it depends on the club.” When asked about contract renewal talks, he playfully avoided a direct answer. It’s worth noting that McKennie signed a contract extension in the summer of 2024, keeping him at Juventus until June 30, 2026.
Addressing the team’s recent performances, McKennie acknowledged room for improvement, even after victories. He mentioned the challenges of injuries and frequent player rotations but emphasized, “We’re Juventus, and it’s normal that we should always try to win.”