US men's national team midfielder Weston McKennie has apologized to teammates and fans after being sent off in the Nations League semifinal against Mexico after a physical altercation.
Tensions began to rise between the United States and Mexico after goals from Christian Pulisic and Ricardo Pepi propelled the American side closer to the Nations League final against Canada. But the game took a heated turn in the 85th minute, as confrontations became physical and forced the expulsions of Weston McKennie, Sergino Dest, Gerardo Arteaga and Cesar Montes.
McKennie was shown a straight red after sticking up for USMNT newcomer Folarin Balogun, who was clipped from behind after a clumsy challenge out of frustration from Mexico's Cesar Montes. Due to the red card, McKennie was unable to play in the final.
"I just want to say, I’m sure Serge also, sorry from the bottom of our hearts," McKennie said to the team. "But like (interim manager B.J. Callaghan) said, we have a solution to everything. This whole f—— team that’s in here, that’s what f—— matters. And I have complete faith in every single last one of you f—— players that we’re going to lift another trophy come the 18th. And then we can celebrate even harder."
McKennie's faith in his teammates proved right as they picked up the second ever and their second consecutive Concacaf Nations League title in convincing fashion.
Now, McKennie will focus on regrouping with the Juventus squad ahead of the upcoming Serie A season. The former Schalke 04 player was on loan for six months with Premier League outfit Leeds United when they were relegated this past season alongside nation team teammates Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams.
This article was originally published on 90min as Weston McKennie apologizes to USMNT fans after red card against Mexico.
