When 18-year-old Weston McKennie left FC Dallas to play for Schalke 04 in Germany, many questioned how the young American would fare in such a tough league. Since then, he has impressed at the club, eventually securing a move to Juventus, where he became one of their most technical players. However, McKennie had a lot to prove to get to where he is today.

In Christian Pulisic’s documentary, McKennie spoke about the bias against American players, revealing how every year he had to prove himself to the ‘Old Lady.’ Despite transfer rumors circulating every season, the midfielder hopes to continue his fine form in Italy. Given his current form, the chances of him leaving the Bianconeri in the summer are thin. 

“During my career, even as a child, a lot of people didn’t believe in me. Even when I started my career here at Juventus, they told me Juve was too big for me and I would never play. I like that, because I do everything I can to change their minds.” says McKennie when he was handing out gifts in Turin as part of his McKennie’s Magical Youth Mission project.

Over the years, Weston McKennie has proven his versatility in Turin, playing a variety of positions. “As long as I get to play, I don’t mind, I’ll even go in goal. I had actually started out with Allegri on the wing.” says the American, who recently started as a left back in his side’s 4-0 win over Cagliari. 

For Juventus it was their second win in the last six games, securing a surprising 2-0 victory over the out-of-form Manchester City. McKennie also scored the second goal in that match, and his performance drew praise from the manager. 

“Weston can do everything” – says Thiago Motta 

During the post-match interview following their Champions League win, Juventus coach Thiago Motta was full of praise for the American and the impact he made after being brought on. “Weston can do everything. He has unusual physicality, great technique, knows when to time his runs, and can be even more dangerous when he comes in from behind,” said Motta. 

Last season, McKennie played as a right-wingback when USMNT teammate Tim Weah was injured. His favored role is the no.8 position, a midfielder who plays more offensively than a no.6 but less than a no.10. His versatility is something that USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino will be counting on for major tournaments.

Weston McKennie has proved that he makes an impact when playing his preferred position. However, for Juventus, there is plenty of competition in midfield with the likes of Thuram, Koopmeiners, and Locatelli, making it a tougher challenge for him. But given his recent performances, can he become a regular? Only time will tell.