Gio Reyna is determined to make a significant impact at the upcoming World Cup on U.S. soil in 2026, setting his sights on a return to the U.S. Men's National Team. After a challenging period marked by injuries and controversy, the 22-year-old attacking midfielder is eager to prove his worth and secure a spot on the roster.
Reyna's journey has been fraught with obstacles, including a tumultuous experience at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He played sparingly, and his efforts were overshadowed by a public dispute with then-coach Gregg Berhalter regarding his training performance. Reyna's parents, Claudio and Danielle Reyna, also became involved, lobbying the U.S. Soccer Federation for more playing time for their son and raising a decades-old domestic violence allegation against Berhalter.
Reflecting on the 2022 incident, Reyna acknowledged that he would handle certain aspects differently. While admitting his frustration played a role, he also suggested that the blame wasn't entirely his or his family's. "Maybe in certain ways, but I'm not just going to sort of sit here and take all the blame for something that was made out to be completely my fault, which I believe it wasn't, and also my family's, too," Reyna told the Associated Press.
Since then, Reyna has faced further setbacks, with a series of muscle injuries hindering his progress. His time at Borussia Dortmund saw him often used as a substitute, followed by a loan to Nottingham Forest and a subsequent period on the bench. The last time Reyna played a full 90 minutes in a league game was in March 2022, and he has only made one appearance for the U.S. team since the 2024 Copa América.
In August 2025, Reyna moved to Borussia Mönchengladbach in search of more consistent playing time and a chance to revitalize his career. Despite the fresh start, fitness issues have limited him to just four of eight Bundesliga games thus far. Even with limited minutes, Reyna believes it's an improvement over his situation last season.
Reyna is aware that his performances with Borussia Mönchengladbach will be crucial in convincing U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino that he deserves a place in the national team. "I think Pochettino was very clear with saying, 'You need to play, perform and then if you do that then you have a good chance to come in again.' It's all on me now," Reyna stated.
With only a few U.S. friendlies scheduled before the pre-World Cup camp, Reyna understands that his primary opportunity to impress Pochettino lies with his club. He is determined to make the most of this chance and demonstrate his readiness to contribute to the national team's success.
Reyna recognizes the need to translate words into action. "I would love to look back in the future and say that it was a pivotal year, few years here,” he said. “But talking is not really the way. You have to turn the talking into action". He is focused on staying fit, performing well for Borussia Mönchengladbach, and proving to Pochettino that he is a valuable asset to the U.S. Men's National Team.
