Charting Weston McKennie’s unlikely rise at Juventus | OneFootball

Juventus picked up a 2-1 win over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League yesterday and it was another game where Weston McKennie ran the show for the hosts.

It was his goal – a perfect volley from outside the box, that handed Juve the lead. And he also put in an impressive performance, playing in the number ten spot.

Mentioning the American’s position has been a very important part of the season because he has played pretty much everywhere barring centre-back and goalkeeper. He has become Thiago Motta’s Swiss Army knife, operating in midfield, on either wings, right-back, left-back, false nine and attacking midfield.

It is this versatility that had set him apart during his time at Schalke and that is now finally coming to the fore in a very effective manner. In a way, this rise was rather unlikely.

That is because McKennie was very close to heading out of the club in the summer. Aston Villa had come forward for him and Juve had excluded him from their project, as he rejected the chance to move to Birmingham. It took some weeks for Juve to come to terms with his presence, but McKennie never let his performances down and has proved that he definitely cannot be sold.

About three seasons ago, the versatile star had been loaned out to Leeds United when they had sustained relegation from the top-flight. He did well but Juve’s indication was quite clear that they did not see a future for the USA international in Turin. His name would constantly get forgotten when it comes to the Juve squad, which says everyone one should know about how things were.

When others would have sought an exit desperately and he fought for his place. He has three assists and five goals in all competitions and has arguably been Juventus’ best player this season.

Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN