Weston McKennie Proving His Worth at Juventus Under Luciano Spalletti

It wasn't long ago that Juventus wanted nothing to do with Weston McKennie. The Italian giants even shipped him off on loan to Leeds United and reportedly cleared out his locker upon his return to Turin. Those same decision-makers are likely regretting that move now.

The 27-year-old USMNT midfielder is experiencing a remarkable run of form. Since the calendar flipped to 2025, McKennie has found the back of the net four times across just eight appearances. Beyond the goals, he's established himself as an indispensable piece of Juventus under new boss Luciano Spalletti.

Spalletti brings a unique tactical mindset to the touchline. The innovative manager famously declared that "systems no longer exist in football" while capturing the Serie A title with Napoli. His footballing vision centres on identifying and exploiting the spaces opponents leave vulnerable, then attacking them with speed and precision.

McKennie represents the ideal profile for this tactical approach. He's essentially a position-fluid player – or perhaps it's more fitting to call him an "all-positions" player.

Master of All Trades

During the previous campaign, McKennie featured at left-back, right-back, both wing-back roles, holding midfield, box-to-box midfield, right wing, number 10, and even as a centre-forward. Goalkeeper remains the sole position he hasn't sampled!

In Spalletti's setup, McKennie typically begins matches positioned on the right flank. However, he enjoys complete tactical freedom to tuck inside, operate between the defensive and midfield lines, and even advance as a secondary striker. Nobody in the Juventus squad better exemplifies Spalletti's flexible, system-free philosophy.

McKennie delivered a masterclass performance against Parma this past Sunday in Juventus' commanding 4-1 triumph. The American opened his account in the 37th minute and earned man-of-the-match honours. Following the final whistle, he couldn't contain his enthusiasm for his manager: "I have never in my career worked with a coach like this."

The USMNT Situation

For American supporters, McKennie's international picture raises questions. USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino excluded him from recent friendly matches, explaining that "we already know what he can provide the team." It's a curious justification considering Pochettino's limited time working with his top talent.

The pressing question surrounds McKennie's role in Pochettino's 2026 World Cup blueprint. While he undoubtedly ranks among America's elite players, his specific tactical assignment remains murky. Pochettino appears hesitant about deploying him in deeper central midfield areas.

This could push McKennie into an advanced role as one of two attacking midfielders. However, competition is fierce with Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman, Gio Reyna, and Diego Luna vying for similar spots. Alternatively, he could occupy the right flank as he does for Juventus, though Pochettino has favoured Sergiño Dest, Tim Weah, and Alex Freeman in that area.

For those wagering on USMNT team selections heading into the World Cup, McKennie's status merits close attention. His current form demands a starting berth, yet Pochettino's selections have raised eyebrows.

Making skeptics eat their words has become McKennie's calling card. Nearly every season at Juventus begins with speculation about his departure or diminished playing time. Without fail, he's battled his way back into the starting eleven.

Spalletti clearly recognizes McKennie's unique qualities. The veteran Italian tactician has constructed his team to accentuate McKennie's assets while masking his limitations. Spalletti regularly sings his versatile midfielder's praises: "He fights, he's strong in the air and he can jump high. He plays to get results because he makes decisions. He would be a perfect striker."

Sources indicate contract negotiations have commenced to secure McKennie's services at Juventus beyond the current campaign. Transfer speculation has linked him with Milan, Napoli, and MLS outfit FC Cincinnati, though his representative recently dismissed these stories as "lies and propaganda."

What's undeniable is McKennie's value to this Juventus side. As the Bianconeri undergo reconstruction, the American has demonstrated he merits a starring role in their plans moving forward. Perhaps when he puts pen to paper on that new deal, he'll finally reclaim his parking space at the training ground.