McKennie Faces USMNT Challenge After Years of Proving Worth at Juventus
ROME – Weston McKennie, accustomed to battling for his position at Juventus, now finds himself in a similar situation with the U.S. Men’s National Team, as increased competition for midfield spots and a coach willing to prioritize current form over past accomplishments create a new challenge for the veteran player.
For years, McKennie has navigated a recurring cycle at the Italian club, repeatedly being deemed “out of the project” during the offseason – even facing the loss of locker room privileges – only to fight his way back into the starting lineup. “The summer is always a roller coaster for me. So, nothing’s really changed,” McKennie said Thursday with a smile. “I’m kind of used to it now.” He attributes his success in reclaiming his place to consistent hard work. “It’s year after year, so it’s years of practice,” he grinned, adding, “I don’t think anyone wants to have their head messed with every summer. But, I’m used to it… whenever it comes around to the summertime, I know it’s just the best time for me to put my head down and do what I do best and work, and hopefully prove people wrong, but mostly prove myself right.”
McKennie’s recent form at Juventus reflects this resilience. After limited playing time early in the season, he has started four games, including two in the Champions League, and appeared in five matches over the past month. Though, the landscape within the USMNT midfield has shifted, with a deeper pool of players and a coach, reportedly Pochettino, demonstrating a willingness to favor players performing well in the moment.
When asked if he felt he needed to earn back a starting spot with the national team, McKennie responded, “That’s for the outside people to think, and the coaching staff to feel like. I just come in and do my best. If the coach thinks it’s a good fit for the starting 11, it’s a good fit.if it’s not, then it’s not.” He acknowledged being away from the team for several months but downplayed the meaning of a March incident,stating he hadn’t been around long enough to gauge how others were interpreting events. “I’m just here to do my job whenever I’m called upon,” he said. “And that’s that.”
