Tim Howard Stunned By Weston McKennie’s USMNT Omission

Weston McKennie’s absence from the United States men’s national team squad for the November international friendlies has sparked sharp criticism and confusion, with former goalkeeper Tim Howard leading the chorus of disbelief.

Weston McKennie’s Omission Raises Questions Ahead of USMNT Friendlies

Weston McKennie, the dynamic Juventus midfielder, has been left out of the USMNT roster for the upcoming matches against Paraguay and Uruguay. The decision has drawn widespread attention, especially as McKennie has consistently been regarded as one of the national team’s top performers. Tim Howard, renowned for his time between the posts for the United States, did not mince words on the Unfiltered Soccer Podcast, stating, “I’m baffled by this one. The decision makes no sense at all.”

Howard emphasized that McKennie, during the international window, will be training with a depleted Juventus squad, as most internationals depart for their respective national teams. “Weston’s going to be training with some reserves and a skeleton squad. You are not impressing a manager in a 10-day window back at your club,” Howard explained, underscoring the missed opportunity for McKennie to showcase his talents on the international stage.

Howard Questions Communication and Priorities

The former shot-stopper also highlighted possible communication breakdowns between club and national team management. “I don’t know if the players and managers even speak with the U.S. team,” Howard mused. “If there was a conversation, I’m curious: Did Pochettino tell Wes, ‘I’m leaving you out?’ How was that accepted? It makes me think the national team isn’t the priority.”

Howard’s concerns extend to McKennie’s overall USMNT involvement, noting that with his continued exclusion, McKennie will have participated in only one national team camp over the past year. “That’s crazy. He’s probably our top three, certainly top five best player, and he’s only been with the team once this year,” Howard said.

USMNT Faces Ongoing Player Availability Issues

McKennie’s omission is part of a larger pattern for the USMNT, as other key players like Chris Richards and Christian Pulisic have also missed crucial windows due to injuries and club commitments. As the United States prepares for tests against Paraguay and Uruguay, questions linger about squad continuity and long-term planning.

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Opinion: National Team Commitment Needs Clarity

In my view, Tim Howard’s frustration over Weston McKennie’s absence is more than justified. With the World Cup looming, the USMNT must prioritize building chemistry and fielding their best talent. Open communication between clubs, players, and the national team staff is vital to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that playing for the national jersey remains a top priority for America’s elite footballers.