GOD55 Sports | USMNT Abroad: McKennie, Pulisic, Aaronson

GOAL looks at the biggest storylines among Americans Abroad, including Pulisic looking to get back to his best.

McKennie's Midfield Masterclass & Juve's UCL Hunt

The noise around Weston McKennie playing as a No. 9 for Juventus has reached peak absurdity. Despite manager Luciano Spaletti's ill-advised comments, the USMNT star is undeniably thriving in his natural midfield role, having his best season yet. As Juve chase a crucial Champions League spot, McKennie's dynamic contributions are more vital than ever.

Dispelling the 'Striker' Myth

This season, the Texan midfielder has blended goal-scoring threat with relentless defensive work, proving his immense value in the engine room. His consistent high-level performances underscore why he deserves to play in his preferred position, rather than being shoehorned into an unfamiliar striker role.

The Road Ahead for the Old Lady

Juventus faces a pivotal stretch. With the Serie A title seemingly slipping away to Inter, securing a top-four finish and Champions League qualification has become the club's singular focus. Their upcoming clash against Parma, currently 15th in the league and struggling for form with just one win in their last five, presents a must-win opportunity. These are the fixtures where McKennie must continue to dictate play and ensure Juve remain on track.

Aaronson: The Premier League Title Race Disruptor?

Could Brenden Aaronson become the unlikely spoiler in the Premier League title race? With Arsenal showing signs of their familiar mid-season wobble after a loss to Manchester United, the door is open for Manchester City. While Aaronson's season with Leeds hasn't been consistently stellar, his recent performances have seen him deliver crucial goals and assists.

Leeds' Elland Road Advantage

Facing a formidable Arsenal side renowned for its defensive solidity, Leeds will need their creative spark. The electrifying atmosphere of Elland Road could be the catalyst for an upset. If Leeds is to snatch points from the Gunners and potentially blow the title race wide open, Aaronson's ability to unlock defenses will be paramount.

Pulisic's Pressure Cooker: Milan's Scudetto Dreams Fading

The Christian Pulisic rollercoaster continues its familiar dip. After a blistering start to the season, the USMNT captain finds himself in a concerning slump, mirroring AC Milan's fading Serie A title aspirations. His last goal came on December 28, with an assist drought stretching back to November 23. Milan's recent 1-1 draw with Roma highlights their urgent need for a spark.