Angus Kinnear has backed Weston McKennie to become a roaring success at Leeds United. The midfielder is the latest American export to seek pastures new at Elland Road.
Arriving on loan from Juventus, McKennie linked up with international teammates Tyler Adams and Brenden Aaronson. Jesse Marsch too, his now former manager, was key in bringing the 24-year-old to Yorkshire.
McKennie was one of the most coveted youngsters in world football when Juventus signed him from Schalke permanently two years ago. However, first-team opportunities have proven difficult at the Italian giants, resulting in a loss of confidence and the need for a fresh challenge.
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Leeds offered the midfield powerhouse an escape route, while also providing the opportunity for McKennie to realise his Premier League dream. In his programme notes ahead of the Manchester United clash, managing director Kinnear insisted the new arrival possesses all the attributes to become a hit with supporters.
“The transfer window closed with the arrival of Weston McKennie from Juventus to complement the captures of Max Wober and Georginio Rutter,” Kinnear wrote. “We are pleased to have added both depth and quality in the window I annually and tediously trail as “challenging”, but we know that the success of the January trading will, and should, only be judged by what they contribute over the next 18 games.
“It does, however, reinforce the board’s commitment to delivering investment in line with our collective ambitions. Weston brings experience that belies his youth and couples his universally recognised ability with the depth of character that I am sure will endear him to our Elland Road faithful.”
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