Weston McKennie is thriving at Juventus, and in a revealing new interview, he credits one man above all: manager Luciano Spalletti. Speaking to DAZN, the USMNT star didn't hold back, calling Spalletti the best coach he's ever had in his career.
McKennie's praise comes on the heels of a remarkable career resurgence in Turin. After a period where his future at the club seemed uncertain, he has become a linchpin in midfield, a turnaround he directly attributes to Spalletti's unique leadership. "Every time I see the manager he gives me a sense of security," McKennie explained, highlighting the trust and confidence that defines their relationship.
What sets Spalletti apart, according to McKennie, is his masterful communication. The coach delivers criticism not to humiliate, but to constructively build up his players. "He always does it to make you improve... He commands your attention every time he speaks," McKennie said, contrasting this approach with harsher methods he's experienced elsewhere.
At the heart of Spalletti's philosophy is a relentless focus on the collective. McKennie shared a telling quote from the manager: "You can dribble past four opponents, score and be happy, but if you provide a beautiful assist, two people are happy." This team-first mentality, McKennie believes, is the secret sauce behind both his personal form and the squad's cohesion. "The numbers say it and the way he manages the group makes him an outstanding coach," he concluded.
The interview also offered a glimpse into McKennie's unforgettable experience playing alongside a global icon. Reflecting on his time with Cristiano Ronaldo, McKennie described it as "incredible," a rare opportunity to share the pitch and the dressing room with one of football's all-time greats. It's a chapter that undoubtedly shaped the midfielder's professional journey, adding to the elite environment Spalletti continues to cultivate at Juventus today.
