Juventus livid with McKennie for flouting Covid rules for second time in months

Juventus are reportedly prepared to sell Weston McKennie after the midfielder breached Covid guidelines for the second time in a matter of months.

Back in March of this year, McKennie, 23, hosted a lockdown party which was also attended by Juventus teammates Arthur Melo and Paulo Dybala.

The trio were fined for breaking the strict lockdown that was in place, with then manager Andrea Pirlo suspending them from action.

And less than six months later, McKennie has fallen foul of the guidelines again after the USA international confirmed he would miss their World Cup qualifier with Canada.

The former Schalke star did appear in the 0-0 draw with El Salvador but announced on his social media that he would miss Sunday's game after breaching rules.

Weston McKennie has angered Juventus bosses for his latest breach

"Unfortunately, I am suspended for tonight's match due to a violation of team COVID-19 protocols," he posted.

"I am sorry for my actions. I will be cheering hard for the boys tonight and hope to be back with the team soon."

International teammate Tyler Adams admitted McKennie's absence was a huge blow to their hopes, due to his importance to the national side.

"Obviously it's not an ideal situation because he's such an important player, an important character to this team," Adams said.

"He obviously brings what he does on the field, but even off the field, how close he brings the team together. So, yeah, it's a little disappointing, but it was that next-man-up mentality."

This latest indiscretion has left Juventus fuming, who according to MailSport are questioning whether he has the correct temperament to play at a top club.

Aston Villa and Tottenham have both been linked with the central midfielder and there is a feeling the Bianconeri would be open to selling him, should a team bid £25m in January.

McKennie played against El Salvador but was absent against Canada on Sunday

New Juve boss Masimiliano Allegri is a fan of the player, but there is now said to be pressure above him to cash in.

USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter has refused to comment on the incident but has previously spoken of how he hopes Allegri will continue to develop McKennie.

"McKennie has a fundamental role in our national team. First of all his leadership is very important for us," Berthlater told Tuttosport last month.

"Moreover, Weston, with his great energy, is a driving force and transmits a lot to our team.

"Allegri has realized his ability in the attacking phase. We too consider him dangerous in the goal zone with his runs towards the penalty area. He will have a positive impact on Juventus.

"Alongside Pulisic who recently won the Champions League with Chelsea, he's highlighting the development of the US football movement."