Weston McKennie pinpointed his best position that everybody forgot existed

Wait... He named just one position?
Weston McKennie, USMNT
Weston McKennie, USMNT / Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/GettyImages
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It's a compliment to look at a player and wonder what their best position is. It is very much the case for Weston McKennie, who could play in a multitude of positions on the field and not look out of place.

McKennie's versatility has been of use to the US Men's National Team in the past, and it certainly be of benefit at this summer's World Cup.

While McKennie is capable of playing wherever he wants on the pitch, there is one position that he considers his strongest position is operating in the box-to-box role.

He's worn so many hats for the USMNT that fans would be forgiven for forgetting he does have a strongest position.

Weston McKennie feels strongest operating as a box-to-box midfielder

Alongside a Q&A with FanSided, Weston McKennie pinpointed his strongest position to USMNT fans as being a 'number eight', one that operates in both defensive and offensive zones.

In his own words, McKennie said "We have numbers for positions, so I would say mine is an eight. That's why I also wear the jersey number eight."

"I’m a midfielder, but a midfielder that attacks and defends – like a box-to-box type of guy. Defensively, I need to be in our own box defending, and offensively, I need to be in the opposition’s box to try to score."

Weston McKennie is in a constant pursuit of improvement

Soccer is a lot different to other U.S. sports. With the likes of basketball or baseball, the best opportunities are in the United States. However, with soccer, the best opportunities are outside of the United States (at least right now).

However, that hasn't stopped Weston McKennie from bringing the game to the U.S.A. whenever he represents the USMNT. He plays soccer out in Europe, representing Serie A giants Juventus in Turin, Italy, but in doing so, he has learned some invaluable lessons that he plans to bring to the World Cup this summer.

Not only is McKennie looking to improve on the pitch, but he also constantly strives off the pitch, too. Those go hand-in-hand, in McKennie's mind.

Weston McKennie holding Chobani yogurt in a USMNT jersey
Weston McKennie is a Nutrition Ambassador for Chobani / Chobani

Recently partnering with Chobani as a Nutrition Ambassador, McKennie spoke about how adapting to new environments has one constant: his prioritization of nutrition to make him match-ready.

"No matter where I am, my focus is on simple, nutritious food that supports performance," Weston explained.

"Every place has its own food culture and rhythm, and I enjoy that, but I always come back to what I know works for my body. It’s about staying consistent, fueling properly, and making sure I’m ready to perform no matter where I’m playing."

That is why McKennie partnered with Chobani, stating "Chobani makes that easy. It fits into my routine wherever I am, whether I need something quick before training or something to help with recovery. I’m proud to be partnering with Chobani and supporting a mission that helps young athletes understand this early."

The USMNT needs Weston McKennie in peak condition for the World Cup

Mauricio Pochettino is yet to announce the USMNT's final roster for the 2026 World Cup, but USA fans already know what Weston McKennie will be front and center. If he is fit and available, he makes the trip home - it really is that simple.

McKennie is important to the USMNT for his versatility, sure, but not just that. The midfielder has big-game experience, and he is already a senior figure in this roster.

With experience captaining the USMNT, and playing alongside players who have literally won the World Cup while at Juventus, McKennie is a no-brainer pick that Poch won't waste a second pondering.