FC Schalke’s Weston McKennie talks with SoccerToday about His Career, what he Misses About the US, and Advice to Youth Soccer Players
Weston McKennie recently extended his contract with FC Schalke for another year. Previously, the youngster’s contract was due to expire at the end of the 2019/2020 season.
It is always an exciting moment when a U.S. national signs a contract with a professional club. 19-year-old midfielder Weston McKennie has signed with FC Schalke 04 and will be playing in the Bundesliga.
Related Article: Weston McKennie Signs with FC Schalke
Here is our exclusive interview with this American born Player To Watch:
Diane Scavuzzo: Congratulations – how do you define success in the world of soccer?
Weston McKennie: I define success as a team that works together and wins together, a team that works well getting results.
Diane Scavuzzo: “Always striving for perfection,” — What does this phrase make you think of?
Weston McKennie: Always working hard and giving it your best – that is my goal when I play soccer.
Diane Scavuzzo: When did you first start playing soccer and where did you play?
Weston McKennie: I first started playing soccer when I was 6, I moved to Germany. And I played in FC Otterbach (SP)
Diane Scavuzzo: What do you respect most about Schalke as a professional soccer club in Germany?
Weston McKennie: The history, the handwork and the club’s background.
Diane Scavuzzo: How does playing in the bundesliga differ from playing soccer in the USA?
Weston McKennie: I think it requires a little bit more thinking and it’s a little bit faster.
Diane Scavuzzo: What advice can you share with players who are looking to sign with pro clubs?
Weston McKennie: Just keep working hard and if someone doesn’t believe in you use it as motivation and keep going.
Diane Scavuzzo: What surprises people about you the most?
Weston McKennie: That I’m American.
Diane Scavuzzo: What are you best at?
Weston McKennie: I think I’m best at giving my best and maybe I’m worst at cooking, I don’t know ….
Diane Scavuzzo: Cooking?
Weston McKennie: Yeah, cooking!
Diane Scavuzzo: What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of?
Weston McKennie: Making it over here.
Making it on to the Schalke team — coming through the academy and making it to first team.
Diane Scavuzzo: What is the best thing about living in Germany what do you miss most about the states?
Weston McKennie: The best thing about living here is the soccer and that there’s a lot of people who are friendly.
What I miss about the states is obviously my friends and my family and the shopping malls and the food — the food is better too.
Photo Credit: FC Schalke
