“It was disappointing, One of the most difficult periods in my career”-Weston McKennie admits Leeds United loan spell was disastrous as player says he only joined Whites because Juventus were in crisis
Weston McKennie returned to Juventus over the summer after being relegated while on loan at Leeds United last season
Following his difficult loan spell at Leeds United, Weston McKennie knows he has a point to prove as he looks to find career traction. The American joined Leeds on loan from Juventus in January but struggled to settle and produce his best stuff at Elland Road.
Despite making 19 Premier League appearances, he failed to have a positive impact in West Yorkshire and he picked up plenty of criticism for his performances as the Whites slipped out of the top flight and into the Championship.
Relegation ensured a permanent move to Leeds never materialised and despite being linked to a number of clubs across Europe, McKennie remained at Juventus this summer.
McKennie’s dad was also critical of his son’s loan spell at the end of last season as he defended his son’s performance on Social Media following criticism from fans on the back of relegation last season.
Mc Kennie has now admitted that he’s returning to Juventus post them being in a crisis situation which facilitated his move in the first place.
When asked about his loan spell at Leeds, the player admitted that it was disappointing:
“It was disappointing honestly, I gained a bit of Premier League experience like I always wanted but it was one of the most difficult periods of my career.”
On returning to Juventus, 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”
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.
