Weston McKennie is assisted from the field of play after an injury on a challenge by Pervis Estupinan during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between Villarreal CF and Juventus at Estadio de la Ceramica on February 22, 2022 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
Weston McKennie suffers double fracture
Weston McKennie takes on Pervis Estupinan during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between Villarreal CF and Juventus at Estadio de la Ceramica on February 22, 2022 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
Juventus drew against Villarreal but the concern laid toward Weston McKennie’s injury
Juventus went up early in their Champions League fixture against Villarreal. In the end, the Serie A giants had to settle for a draw.
However, despite the disappointing result, the attention was focused on the injury suffered by Weston McKennie. The American went down after a challenge y Pervis Estupinan and had to be helped off the pitch by the medical staff.
The injury looked severe and it appears the worst case scenario is coming true.
According to ESPN, sources with direct knowledge of the injury have informed them that McKennie suffered fractures to the second and third metatarsals in his left foot. The midfielder is looking at an 8-12 week recovery period.
Losing McKennie is a big blow both to Juventus and the USMNT.
Despite rumors before the start of the season linking him with a move away from Juventus, he’s solidified himself in midfield become an important figure for Max Allegri.
But his absence will likely have a bigger impact on the national team. We’ve seen how much Gregg Berhalter’s side struggle when the 23-year-old isn’t on the pitch. He’s been able to carry his form from his club side to the national team.
His performances has not only helped the USMNT but it’s allowed to take some pressure off other players like Christian Pulisic.
McKennie won’t be available for the CONCACAF Qualifiers in March, meaning he will miss the games against Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica.
The USMNT currently sit in second place, above Mexico only on goal differential.
While Panama is a home game, the matches against Mexico and Costa Rica are away. Berhalter does have options but McKennie’s absence will surely be felt.
