It's being reported that Weston McKennie dislocated his shoulder in training ahead of Juventus’ preseason match against Real Madrid on Saturday night. With the World Cup just months away, how does this impact the USMNT’s preparation for the tournament?
Weston McKennie could be out for at least a month after dislocating his shoulder
— Italian Football TV (@IFTVofficial) July 31, 2022
How Long is McKennie Out For?
Si ferma anche #McKennie: la lussazione alla spalla è ridotta, ma il centrocampista texano dovrà star fermo per almeno un mese. #Juventus
— Giovanni Albanese (@GiovaAlbanese) July 31, 2022
After he sustained his injury in training, La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that the American could be out for a month while his shoulder heals. Some sources have said it could be longer, but that information has yet to be substantiated.
McKennie was set to feature for the first time on Juventus’ American tour but failed to make a single appearance during the entire trip. With new signing Paul Pogba also out injured for a similar amount of time, Juventus will most likely utilize a midfield three of Manuel Locatelli, Denis Zakaria and Adrien Rabiot until the duo returns to the pitch.
Will McKennie Miss USMNT Games?
Weston Mckennie will be out for a month due to a shoulder injury.
That’s not good, as he was working his way back from a broken foot.
In terms of the World Cup, he will be fine as he is expected to return early September. https://t.co/MbFTJfMt1n— Tactical Manager (@ManagerTactical) July 31, 2022
Ahead of the World Cup this fall, the USMNT plays two final friendlies against Japan and Saudi Arabia in late September. There's every chance that McKennie will be fit and ready for those fixtures as Gregg Berhalter tests out tactics and formations one final time before the tournament. As Weston is a key part of Berhalter’s plans, his inclusion in those games is crucial to the confidence and cohesion of the squad.