Cremaschi's First Parma Start

Midfielder Played 86 Minutes in Parma's Coppa Italia Defeat

Benjamin Cremaschi's journey from Inter Miami's academy to Serie A reached a significant milestone when he earned his first start for Parma in their Coppa Italia clash against Bologna, representing another step forward for the promising American midfielder.

The 20-year-old joined Parma on loan through June 2026 with a purchase option reportedly valued at five million dollars, departing Miami after making 107 appearances and winning both the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 Supporters' Shield. His transition to Italian football began with a brief Roma debut in November, when he entered as a substitute in the 77th minute of a 2-1 defeat. However, he managed just one completed pass in limited involvement.

However, Cremaschi's early weeks at Parma were dominated by international duty rather than club integration. Shortly after completing his loan move, he linked up with the United States for the U-20 World Cup, where he delivered a breakout performance, winning the Golden Boot as the tournament's leading scorer with five goals. Despite the Americans falling to eventual champions Morocco in the quarterfinals, Cremaschi's individual success raised his profile considerably.

His first start for Parma came in Thursday's Coppa Italia match against defending champions Bologna, where he played 86 minutes before being substituted. While Parma ultimately lost 2-1 to Santiago Castro's late winner, Cremaschi showed flashes of his potential, completing 10-of-17 passes, winning half his duels, and making two tackles. His statistics revealed a player still adjusting to Serie A's intensity but willing to engage physically and contribute defensively.

As Inter Miami's most prominent academy product, Cremaschi's development in Italy represents an important pathway for American talent. With Parma battling near the relegation zone in 17th place in Serie A, the young midfielder will have ample opportunities to prove his worth and potentially secure a permanent move to European football.

McKennie Making Waves

McKennie Marked His 200th Juventus Appearance With an Assist in the Coppa Italia

Weston McKennie marked a significant personal milestone during Juventus' comfortable Coppa Italia victory over Udinese on Tuesday, making his 200th appearance for the club in a performance that once again demonstrated his enduring value to the Bianconeri.

The American midfielder proved instrumental in the 2-0 triumph, creating the opening goal when his delivery into the box was turned into his own net by teenage defender Matteo Palma. McKennie's influence didn't end there—he later won a penalty after being fouled by the same defender, allowing Manuel Locatelli to seal the victory from the spot. His statistical output told the story of another industrious display: leading the match with three chances created, completing 84% of his passes, and winning the majority of his duels over 90 minutes.

Reflecting on reaching 200 games in Turin, McKennie expressed genuine appreciation for his journey. "It's been a long journey, but one I wouldn't trade for anything," he shared on Instagram, adding that the club has given him so much.

McKennie's achievement comes amid uncertainty about his future, with his contract expiring in June and extension talks reportedly stalled since the summer. Despite earning €3 million annually and seeking a modest increase, Juventus management has yet to meet his expectations. Premier League clubs and MLS sides are monitoring the situation, though the club plans to reject January offers.

The 27-year-old's recent form under Luciano Spalletti has been exceptional, starting 10 consecutive matches and scoring his first goal against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League. His versatility across midfield positions has proven invaluable, allowing him to adapt to various tactical requirements while maintaining consistent energy levels and reliability—qualities that have made him indispensable to successive managers despite periodic attempts by club officials to explore his sale.