How Spalletti has revived McKennie’s Juventus career

Weston McKennie has become a key Juventus player under Luciano Spalletti as the American has contributed to several goals thanks to his versatility.

Juventus midfielder McKennie has become the highest-scoring Serie A midfielder across all competitions since Spalletti was appointed to replace Igor Tudor at the end of October.

Under the previous Juventus coach, McKennie had only provided one assist in 10 games, while with Spalletti in charge, the American has already scored seven goals.

Juventus have climbed the table under Spalletti, returning to the top four and odds from over 20 deposit casino suggest the Old Lady is well positioned to secure a place in the Champions League this term.

Surely, McKennie has played a vital role in Juventus’ recent results and performances, and Spalletti is well aware of the midfielder’s relevance in the team.

“The striker creates the space for McKennie,” the Juventus coach explained at a press conference last week.

“The striker who drops deep to link up with the team gives a numerical advantage and frees up the space. We want to be this kind of team that goes ahead through playing style and movement. A team that perceives what is an advantage and what is a disadvantage. Sometimes we use McKennie in the build-up, other times we use him as a target man because we need to beat the press, and he knows how to do it. Therefore, we use him in different areas.”

McKennie seemed no longer part of the Juventus project just a few months ago, also because his contract expires at the end of the season.

His performances and impressive figures under Spalletti, however, have convinced the Bianconeri to offer the American midfielder a new deal.

According to Calciomercato.com, the Serie A giants are determined to propose a pay rise from €2.5m to €4m per season, but other Serie A clubs, including Milan, Inter and Roma, are said to be interested in the USMNT star.

Surely, McKennie seems to be as happy as ever at Juventus, as he also confirmed during an interview after a 4-1 win over Parma.

“We work on the wall in training, so that’s what the celebration was, taking those steps,” McKennie told DAZN Italia.

“Spalletti is unique, as I have never in my career worked with a coach like this. He is so good, works with the team spirit, I’m really happy, and I think everyone here is happy to be working with him.”

McKennie joined Juventus in the summer of 2020 and has scored 25 goals in 215 appearances with the Bianconeri.