Spalletti Confirms Weston McKennie Start as Juventus Midfielder Returns From Injury

Luciano Spalletti has confirmed that Weston McKennie will start for Juventus against NEC Nijmegen as the American midfielder makes his return to the starting XI.

Juventus begin their Europa League campaign at home on Thursday, with Spalletti looking for an immediate response after Sunday's disappointing defeat to Sassuolo.

McKennie's return could provide an important boost in midfield, particularly with Juventus still dealing with several absences.

McKennie Gets the Green Light

Spalletti confirmed before the match that McKennie is available and will start.

The USMNT midfielder had missed Juventus' previous match after returning to training, but his recovery has progressed sufficiently for Spalletti to trust him from the opening whistle.

The timing is significant.

Juventus are looking for more energy and balance in midfield, and McKennie's ability to contribute in both directions gives Spalletti another option as he looks to reshape his team.

The coach also confirmed that Andrea Cambiaso is available again following his own injury absence.

Spalletti Wants Juventus to Reset

The NEC match arrives only days after Juventus suffered a damaging 3–1 defeat away to Sassuolo.

Spalletti has urged his players to move beyond that result rather than allow it to affect their European campaign.

“We have to reset and move on,” was the message from the Juventus boss ahead of the match.

The priority is therefore clear: restore confidence and produce a convincing performance at the Allianz Stadium.

McKennie's Return Comes at the Right Time

Juventus have been forced to manage a number of absences early in the season.

Manuel Locatelli remains unavailable, while several other players are also dealing with injuries or suspension issues.

That has increased the importance of players returning to fitness.

McKennie brings experience, physicality and tactical flexibility to the midfield, and Spalletti's decision to start him immediately shows how highly the coach values those qualities.

His return also gives Juventus another player capable of moving between midfield and the attacking areas.

Cambiaso Provides Another Boost

McKennie's return is not the only positive team-news development.

Cambiaso has also recovered sufficiently to be considered for the NEC match.

The Italy international's versatility gives Spalletti additional options, particularly after the coach indicated that he is considering tactical changes following the Sassuolo defeat.

Juventus' squad remains stretched, but the return of two important players gives the manager more room to manoeuvre.

A Chance for Juventus to Respond

The NEC fixture represents Juventus' first opportunity to respond to their domestic setback.

Spalletti has already stressed the need for his team to show that they are worthy of representing Juventus in Europe.

For McKennie, meanwhile, the match offers a chance to mark his return with a strong performance from the start.

The American has been handed the responsibility of helping Juventus regain control in midfield.

Now the question is whether his return can help produce the reaction Spalletti is demanding.