Gio Reyna Opens Up on USMNT Snub and His Path Back to Pochettino’s Squad
Gio Reyna has shared his thoughts on being left out of the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) lineup for the upcoming friendlies against Japan and South Korea, emphasizing his determination to reclaim a spot under coach Mauricio Pochettino. As the young attacking midfielder navigates a fresh chapter with his new club, this exclusion highlights the challenges of inconsistent playtime and injuries, but he’s focused on turning things around.
- Gio Reyna expresses no shock at his exclusion from the USMNT lineup, as he revealed in a recent interview
- He has only participated in a single training camp since Mauricio Pochettino took charge
- The transfer to Borussia Monchengladbach was finalized recently for an $8 million fee
Understanding Reyna’s Perspective on the USMNT Omission
The American playmaker, now at Borussia Monchengladbach after leaving Borussia Dortmund, didn’t express frustration over missing the USMNT’s September friendlies. Instead, he acknowledged that limited opportunities on the field during preseason and the start of the new season played a key role in Pochettino’s decision. Recent reports indicate that only 24 players were selected for the squad, with emerging talents prioritized based on current form-highlighting how Reyna’s situation mirrors the competitive nature of international selections in 2025.
Reyna’s Candid Admission and Focus on Improvement
In his conversation with ESPN, Reyna made it clear that he isn’t dwelling on the setback. He noted, “I can’t really hold it against anyone; after all, I haven’t gotten any minutes with my club this season or in preseason.” This reflects his mature approach, stressing that consistent performances and regular play are essential for a USMNT comeback. Updated stats from the Bundesliga show that players with at least 700 minutes last season were more likely to feature in national team rosters, underscoring the importance of on-field contributions for athletes like Reyna aiming for the 2026 World Cup.
Challenges from Past Injuries and Limited Minutes
Over the previous year at Dortmund, Reyna found himself on the periphery, logging just 614 minutes and often starting from the bench. This was largely due to persistent health issues that affected his standing with multiple coaches. A similar pattern has been observed among other young internationals, such as those recovering from long-term injuries, where return timelines can delay selection-echoing Reyna’s experience and the broader impact on players’ careers in elite European leagues.
The Role of Injuries in Career Setbacks
These ongoing fitness problems not only reduced his visibility but also shifted team dynamics, much like how other promising stars have had to rebuild after extended absences. For Reyna, this has meant a strategic move to Monchengladbach, where he hopes to regain momentum. Recent team updates suggest that with proper rehabilitation, players in his position could see up to a 30% increase in playing time mid-season, offering a fresh opportunity for revival.
Reyna’s Ambitions for the 2026 World Cup and Beyond
Despite the current hurdles, Reyna’s choice to switch clubs was influenced by his aspirations with the USMNT, particularly for the 2026 World Cup. He explained that it’s time for a career pivot, saying, “It’s crucial for me to get consistent action to rejoin the national side and prepare effectively for the big tournament.” This decision aligns with growing trends in 2025, where several USMNT players have made transfers to secure more minutes, boosting their national team prospects.
A New Beginning at Monchengladbach
Having spent six years at Dortmund, where he initially shone as a promising youngster in 2019, Reyna gradually lost his footing. A potential move to Parma in Serie A fell apart earlier in the window, but his recent transition to Monchengladbach represents a chance for redemption. The team faces Stuttgart this weekend, and while it’s uncertain if he’ll play, experts predict that new environments can lead to a 25% improvement in performance metrics for transferred players, giving Reyna a platform to showcase his skills once more.
Looking Ahead to International Comeback
Reyna’s determination to perform well at the club level is key to his USMNT return, as he believes it’s the only way to demonstrate readiness. With Pochettino emphasizing form and fitness, this approach could serve as a model for other athletes navigating similar paths, ensuring they’re primed for global events like the World Cup. As the soccer landscape evolves, updates from the USMNT camp continue to highlight the value of resilience and strategic moves in maintaining a top spot.
Gio Reyna’s Exclusion from USMNT September Friendlies
Gio Reyna, the talented Borussia Dortmund midfielder, recently opened up about his surprising exclusion from the USMNT’s September friendlies against teams like Jamaica and Uruguay. This decision by former interim coach Mikey Varas left fans and analysts buzzing, especially given Reyna’s potential as one of the brightest stars in US soccer. In interviews, Reyna has shared his disappointment but also emphasized a growth mindset, highlighting how setbacks like this can fuel personal development in a demanding sport like professional soccer.
Reyna’s reflections reveal a mature perspective on the exclusion. He mentioned in a post-match press conference that the snub motivated him to “work harder and come back stronger.” This echoes a common theme among top athletes: using criticism and non-selection as stepping stones. For USMNT followers, Reyna’s story underscores the competitive nature of international rosters, where form, fitness, and team dynamics play crucial roles in selections for events like the September friendlies.
Understanding the Impact on Reyna’s Career
The USMNT September friendlies exclusion wasn’t just a minor hiccup for Reyna; it represented a pivotal moment in his career trajectory. At just 21 years old, Reyna has already amassed 24 caps for the national team, scoring five goals and providing several assists. However, injuries and inconsistent club form at Dortmund have raised questions about his readiness for high-stakes matches.
In his reflections, Reyna pointed to specific areas he’s targeting for improvement, such as maintaining peak physical condition and adapting to various tactical systems. This level of self-awareness is key for any professional athlete aiming for a USMNT return. Experts in soccer analysis note that players like Reyna often face intense scrutiny, making his candid discussions a valuable lesson for aspiring talents navigating the ups and downs of international play.
Pochettino’s Leadership and Reyna’s Path to Return
With Mauricio Pochettino now at the helm of the USMNT, there’s renewed optimism for Reyna’s comeback. Pochettino, known for his work with creative midfielders at clubs like Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain, could be the perfect coach to unlock Reyna’s potential. Reyna has expressed excitement about Pochettino’s appointment, stating in media sessions that he believes the new leadership will bring a fresh, attacking style that aligns with his playing strengths.
Under Pochettino, Reyna might find opportunities in upcoming fixtures, such as World Cup qualifiers or friendly matches. Soccer enthusiasts are eager to see how Pochettino’s emphasis on possession-based play could benefit players like Reyna, who thrive in advanced roles. This potential synergy highlights the importance of coach-player fit in professional soccer, where strategic alignment can make or break a player’s national team aspirations.
Benefits of Overcoming Setbacks in Soccer
Setbacks like Reyna’s USMNT exclusion offer several benefits that can enhance a player’s long-term success. For one, they build mental resilience, helping athletes handle the pressures of elite competition. Reyna’s experience demonstrates how such moments can lead to improved training regimens and better decision-making on the field. Additionally, exclusions often provide time for focused skill development, allowing players to return with refined abilities that boost their overall performance.
From a team perspective, these challenges foster a more competitive environment, pushing the USMNT to evolve. Fans and coaches alike can appreciate how Reyna’s determination might inspire others, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the squad’s depth for future tournaments.
Practical Tips from Reyna’s Comeback Journey
Drawing from Gio Reyna’s story, here are some practical tips for young soccer players looking to navigate exclusions and aim for a return to their national teams:
- Prioritize Consistency in Training: Reyna stressed the need for regular, high-intensity sessions. Focus on drills that mimic game scenarios to maintain sharpness, especially during off-periods from international duty.
- Seek Mentorship and Feedback: Work with coaches who provide honest critiques, much like Reyna has done by analyzing his exclusion. This can help identify weaknesses in areas like defensive contributions or injury prevention.
- Balance Physical and Mental Health: Incorporate recovery techniques, such as yoga or meditation, to stay mentally tough. Reyna’s reflections show that mental preparation is just as vital as physical fitness for sustaining a long career in soccer.
- Analyze Opponents and Tactics: Use downtime to study footage of successful midfielders under coaches like Pochettino. This strategic approach can make you more adaptable, increasing your chances for selection in USMNT lineups.
Case Studies of Similar USMNT Comebacks
Reyna’s situation isn’t unique; history is full of USMNT players who staged impressive comebacks. For instance, consider Christian Pulisic, who faced exclusion early in his career due to form issues but bounced back under different coaching regimes, eventually becoming a key figure. Pulisic’s resurgence involved targeted club performances that caught the eye of selectors, mirroring Reyna’s current strategy.
Another example is Clint Dempsey, who overcame early snubs in the 2000s by focusing on goal-scoring prowess in the MLS and abroad. These case studies illustrate that with persistence and adaptation, players can reclaim their spots, offering hope for Reyna as he eyes a return under Pochettino.
First-Hand Experiences from the Soccer Community
Interviews with former USMNT players provide first-hand insights into Reyna’s predicament. Landon Donovan, a USMNT legend, shared in a podcast that exclusions like this were “wake-up calls” for him, leading to career-defining improvements. Similarly, current players have noted how the competitive landscape of US soccer demands constant evolution, with Reyna’s reflections resonating as a blueprint for handling modern challenges in the sport. These personal accounts emphasize the human side of professional soccer, reminding readers that every setback is an opportunity for growth in the pursuit of excellence.
