Weston McKennie in top form ahead of World Cup: USMNT star wins Juventus award

Author: Andy McDougall

Weston McKennie earns Juventus’ January MVP award after a strong run of form in Serie A and Europe ahead of the World Cup

Weston McKennie has capped a productive January by being named Juventus’ Player of the Month, recognising his influence in Serie A and the Champions League as the Bianconeri push for a strong finish to the season.

The United States midfielder was voted MVP for January after a string of key performances across seven matches.

The USMNT star started every game Juventus played in January and was integral to the team’s recent resurgence. McKennie’s consistency has been particularly notable under coach Luciano Spalletti, who has deployed him in a variety of roles, demonstrating the American’s adaptability and tactical value at the highest level.

McKennie’s award comes amid Juventus’ climb in Serie A and their ongoing campaign in the Champions League. At 27 years old, he has combined experience with a rich run of form, contributing goals and assists while also anchoring Juve’s midfield during key fixtures.

McKennie’s strong January

During the month in which he was honoured, McKennie scored three goals in seven appearances in all competitions, a performance that helped Juventus win four of those matches and lose just once.

His goals came in crucial moments, including a strike against Lecce and another in Juventus’ European fixture against Benfica, highlighting his ability to impact games on both domestic and continental stages.

In addition to his scoring contributions, McKennie logged full 90‑minute performances in five matches, underlining his importance to the starting XI and his physical readiness during a congested schedule.

Juventus’ results in January helped maintain momentum in the title race in Serie A while also booking their place in the Champions League playoff round.

McKennie’s form this season has also seen him match his career‑high total of six goals across all competitions, a mark he first reached during his 2020‑21 campaign, demonstrating growth in his offensive output.

Juventus’ season and the World Cup 

Juventus currently sit in a disappointing fourth position in Serie A, some 10 points adrift of leaders Inter, but only five behind 2nd place Milan.

McKennie’s consistency has been a key part of their recent resurgence, however, and they have won four of their last five in the league.

For the USMNT, McKennie’s form will be particularly encouraging ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co‑hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

As one of the core midfield figures for Mauricio Pochettino’s team, a productive end to the club season bodes well for his fitness and confidence heading into the summer tournament on home soil.

A milestone and a future

McKennie also reached the milestone of 200 appearances for Juventus last December, underscoring his longevity and importance at the club since his arrival in 2020.

He has scored 19 goals and assisted 19 more in his Juve career so far, making him one of the team’s most productive midfield contributors among current squad members.

While questions remain over his long‑term future remain, with his contract up this summer, his commitment on the pitch has been clear.

McKennie’s January MVP award comes as welcome recognition for the midfielder who hasn’t always been appreciated in Italy.

USMNT supporters will now be hoping he carry on that form for the rest of the season and arrive at the World Cup in peak form and morale.

 

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