Weston McKennie delivers admission after Leeds United loan spell and return to Juventus
Weston McKennie, who was on loan at Leeds United last season, has spoken out about his return to Juventus over the summer.
The United States international moved to Elland Road under Jesse Marsch in January with an option to buy but returned to Turin after the Whites' relegation.
He admits that he's returning to Juventus post them being in a crisis situation which facilitated his move in the first place.
Speaking to Tutto Juve (8 September), McKennie said, "Returning to Juventus wasn't easy," said the 25-year-old midfielder after retiring in the United States. "I left the club at a time of crisis, so coming back is like starting from scratch. It's a challenge for which I'm ready, however, which I think I need at this moment in my career when I have to show people that I'm still there".
Poor signing
On paper, McKennie fit the bill - a United States international playing at one of Europe's biggest clubs - linked with a move to some top Champions League sides not long ago.
However, it was just another American Marsch wanted to bring to Elland Road and that move did not pan out, as everyone involved with Leeds realised.
In February, Marsch even called him a "perfect fit" for Leeds, but it's evident that he was far from what they needed.
McKennie may be happier at Juventus and the Whites hierarchy are happier keeping him away from Elland Road.
Despite not being the majority owners, the San Francisco 49ers will have seen what he offers and will be happy he's no longer a part of the club.
Had there been an obligation, it would've gone down as one of the worst business deals made by the club.