Another young American has made the move to Germany to kickstart his pro career.
FC Schalke announced on Tuesday that U.S. Under-20 Men’s National Team midfielder Weston McKennie has joined the club’s Under-19 team. The FC Dallas product was named Player of the Tournament as the U.S. U-19s claimed April’s Slovakia Cup with a win over Russia.
“He convinced us that he is a robust and smart player,” said academy director Oliver Ruhnert. “In his home country, he is one of the top footballers of his year. He is also a youth international and was also captain of his team. He brings with him a lot, even in terms of mentality. We are convinced that Weston is able to play professional football. Therefore, this transfer is useful.”
McKennie, who recently turned 18, scored 12 goals in the 2015-16 academy season despite playing in the central midfield. The midfielder is not the first American youth international to join the German club this year, as former New York Cosmos midfielder Haji Wright moved to Schalke this past April.