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USMNT star Weston McKennie opens up on struggles at Juventus: ‘He put a lot of pressure on me’

Daniel Villar Pardo
Weston McKennie #16 of Juventus FC controls the ball.
© Michael Reaves/Getty ImagesWeston McKennie #16 of Juventus FC controls the ball.

Weston McKennie joined Juventus in 2021 after impressing at FC Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga, initially defying expectations to secure a key midfield spot. However, his inconsistent performances led to a loan to Leeds United, where he also struggled. Upon returning to Juventus, his future seemed uncertain. This season, the USMNT star revitalized his role under Igor Tudor’s guidance, crediting a pivotal conversation with the coach who shaped his habits.

“My genetics are finally paying off… He put a lot of pressure on me and said, ‘Hey, you’re getting older and your body isn’t going to be able to recover from games like it used to. You need to lose weight, and that’s the only way you can stay on this team… I focused and worked as hard as ever. I went on a diet, I don’t eat as many snacks anymore. If I do, I eat healthy snacks and exercise more often,” Weston McKennie said, via TNT Sports.

Since Massimiliano Allegri’s departure, Juventus have struggled with stability. However, coach Igor Tudor’s arrival offers Weston McKennie a promising opportunity. Although Khepren Thuram is the team’s top midfielder, the rotation for the next slot is between Manuel Locatelli and the USMNT standout. While McKennie hasn’t secured a starting position yet, his impact is undeniable when he comes off the bench, especially as he regains his optimal fitness.

This 2025-26 season, Juventus are undergoing a clear transition in their sporting project, doubling down on young players. Although this was a risky move, they have managed to remain undefeated this season, with Weston McKennie playing a key role in the team, having missed just one game. However, his contract expires at the end of the season and his future with the team appears to be in doubt.

Weston McKennie playing for  Juventus

Weston McKennie #16 of Juventus FC is challenged by Abdelmounaim Boutouil #14 of Wydad AC.

Weston McKennie’s Juventus future uncertain amid interest on a former Barcelona star

Weston McKennie remains a fixture in Juventus’s lineup, yet doubts linger about his long-term future with the club. Matteo Moretto reports that the 27-year-old standout has not received a contract extension offer. Further clouding his position, Juventus are allegedly eyeing a former Barcelona midfielder, whose contract concludes at the season’s end, as a potential new acquisition.

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Franck Kessie has drawn interest from Juventus, with his Al Ahli contract set to expire at season’s end, allowing him to arrive as a free agent. His potential signing could impact Weston McKennie’s future at the club, as both share a similar profile as versatile, box-to-box midfielders who contribute in attack. Should the Ivorian join, the USMNT standout might lose his place, possibly prompting his exit.

Weston McKennie’s future at Juventus remains uncertain, but head coach Igor Tudor clearly values his contributions. This 2025-26 season presents a pivotal opportunity for the USMNT star to secure his place, as a standout performance could persuade Juventus to retain him amid rising interest in Kessie.

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EDITORS’ PICKS
Weston McKennie’s future in doubt as USMNT star reportedly stalls Juventus renewal talks with massive demand

Weston McKennie’s future in doubt as USMNT star reportedly stalls Juventus renewal talks with massive demand

Although Weston McKennie did not begin as an undisputed starter at Juventus, he has managed to become one of Luciano Spalletti’s key players. Despite this, the USMNT star does not have his continuity secured, as a reported new demand has complicated the negotiations.

Christian Pulisic to welcome international teammate? Milan opens talks with Weston McKennie, and USMNT winger and Massimiliano Allegri’s influence could prove decisive

Christian Pulisic to welcome international teammate? Milan opens talks with Weston McKennie, and USMNT winger and Massimiliano Allegri’s influence could prove decisive

Weston McKennie has emerged as a surprise target for Milan as the club explores potential midfield reinforcements after the 2026 World Cup, and two familiar figures could quietly influence the decision, Christian Pulisic and Massimiliano Allegri.

Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie to reunite at club level? Milan’s real position revealed as new update on race to sign UMSNT ace after 2026 FIFA World Cup emerges

Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie to reunite at club level? Milan’s real position revealed as new update on race to sign UMSNT ace after 2026 FIFA World Cup emerges

As speculation grows ahead of the 2026 World Cup, a familiar question has resurfaced: could the two American leaders reunite at club level in Italy and build chemistry once the summer tournament ends?

Weston McKennie’s future is up for grabs as Juventus star draws strong interest across Serie A in a free agent move

Weston McKennie’s future is up for grabs as Juventus star draws strong interest across Serie A in a free agent move

After shining at Juventus, Weston McKennie’s future has emerged as a major uncertainty. Amid delays in securing a contract renewal for the USMNT star, several Serie A clubs are reportedly monitoring his situation, with an eye on a potential free-agent move.

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