Explained: How suspended Paul Pogba is influencing future of USMNT star Weston McKennie at Juventus

Weston McKennie is reportedly being lined up for a new contract at Juventus, with Paul Pogba playing a part in that decision.

WHAT HAPPENED?
The Bianconeri have seen their midfield options depleted as World Cup winner Pogba serves a suspension on the back of his failed drugs test. It remains to be seen when the France international will be cleared to play competitive football again.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Nicolo Fagioli has also been hit with a seven-month ban for breaches of Italian betting regulations, meaning that Juve are two proven performers down in the middle of the park. That situation could play into the hands of USMNT star McKennie.
DID YOU KNOW?
The American has enjoyed a remarkable reversal in fortune since spending the second-half of last season suffering relegation out of the Premier League during a forgettable loan spell at Leeds. He has seen the slate wiped clean in Turin, with the most being made of an unexpected second chance.

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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Calciomercato reports that McKennie is now in line for an extension to his current contract. That deal is due to run until 2025, but fresh terms may be tabled as the 25-year-old has taken in 528 minutes of Serie A football in the 2023-24 campaign and is taking on more responsibility as Pogba and Fagioli remain out of action.

WHAT HAPPENED?