ANDREA PIRLO

Midfielder Weston McKennie did not dress for Sunday night's World Cup qualifier against Canada after violating team COVID-19 rules. McKennie, who plays for Juventus, had started Thursday night's opening 0-0 draw at El Salvador and is among the top American players. “Unfortunately, I am suspended for tonight's match due to a violation of team COVID-19 protocols,” McKennie said in a statement he posted on Instagram.

TURIN Weston McKennie opened his first news conference as a Juventus player on Monday with a bit of cultural flair, speaking in Italian. McKennie, who is black, has been outspoken about racism and led the protests in Germany after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The Italian league has struggled with racism in the past and McKennie hopes he can continue to do his part. The idea of coming to play here, in a club with a great history, immediately thrilled me, McKennie said. In the United States, shops sell the jerseys.

All rights reserved)TURIN Its official: Midfielder Weston McKennie has become the first American player at Juventus. The deal requires Juventus to purchase McKennies full rights at the end of the season for 18.5 million euros ($22 million), although the fee could reach 25.5 million euros ($30 million) with bonuses. McKennie can play any of the midfield positions, which makes him a flexible option for new Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo. McKennie started playing soccer while spending part of his childhood in Germany. At Juventus, McKennie will team with international stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini.