The U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) is gearing up for important September friendlies against South Korea and Japan. As manager Mauricio Pochettino prepares to announce his roster, it's a good time to assess the current form and future prospects of some of the team's key players, including Gio Reyna, Christian Pulisic, and Josh Sargent.
Gio Reyna
The biggest news surrounding Reyna is his recent transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Borussia Mönchengladbach. After six years with Dortmund, the move provides Reyna with a much-needed change of scenery. Limited minutes and injuries have hampered the 22-year-old's progress, making it difficult for him to secure a consistent role with both Dortmund and the USMNT.
Gladbach presents a fresh opportunity for Reyna to revitalize his career. He has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with the club, hoping to secure a place on the USMNT's 2026 FIFA World Cup roster. According to Gladbach's managing director for sport, Roland Virkus, Reyna's experience and potential were key factors in the club's decision to acquire him. Virkus also highlighted Reyna's versatility in attack as a valuable asset. Reyna himself expressed his excitement about joining Gladbach and reconnecting with his USMNT teammate Joe Scally.
Despite the move, it may be too late for Reyna to be considered for the upcoming September games. He will face competition for playing time from established players like Franck Honorat, Robin Hack, and Kevin Stöger. However, the fresh start at Gladbach offers Reyna the opportunity to regain his form and prove his worth to the national team.
Christian Pulisic
Christian Pulisic has been in good form since joining AC Milan. He scored in a recent Italian Cup match against Bari, contributing to a 2-0 victory. As the most accomplished club player the USMNT has ever produced, Pulisic continues to be a key figure for both club and country.
Pulisic's ability to play in multiple positions, including as a double six, an eight, out wide, or in the number 10 role, makes him a valuable asset for any team. While he has achieved significant success at the club level, Pulisic is also aiming to make a bigger impact on the world stage. To be considered among the USMNT greats like Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey, he needs to have more memorable moments in major tournaments.
Josh Sargent
Josh Sargent's career has been marked by both promise and frustration. While many see him as the most talented number nine in the USMNT pool, he has struggled to consistently find the net at the international level. Injuries have also played a role in hindering his progress.
There were reports of a potential transfer to Wolfsburg. A move to Wolfsburg could be a good fit for Sargent, offering him the chance to play in a competitive league and contribute to a team with ambitions. However, staying healthy will be crucial for Sargent to make the most of any opportunity. Despite his talent, he is going on 5 years without a goal at the international level.