Reyna With a Point Prove

 Playmaker Needs a Big Week With the National Team

Gio Reyna finds himself at a crossroads as the U.S. Men's National Team prepares for November friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay. After joining Borussia Mönchengladbach in the offseason, the 22-year-old midfielder has managed just 146 Bundesliga minutes this season, raising questions about his readiness for the 2026 World Cup. Despite these struggles, Reyna remains confident, asserting he will be part of the tournament when asked.

This international window marks Reyna's first call-up since March, when the USMNT suffered defeats to Panama and Canada in the Concacaf Nations League finals. He hasn't started for the national team since the disappointing 2024 Copa América, where the Americans exited in the group stage. With such limited recent involvement, these upcoming matches represent a crucial opportunity to prove his worth to head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

The situation is complicated by lingering tensions from the 2022 World Cup. Reyna's relationship with then-coach Gregg Berhalter deteriorated amid behavioral concerns and limited playing time, eventually involving both the Reyna and Berhalter families in public controversy. Pochettino wants to leave that in the past.

Pochettino has made his expectations crystal clear, emphasizing that proper behavior is non-negotiable. The Argentine coach is willing to give Reyna a fresh start, but noted that past talent alone won't guarantee a roster spot. With key midfielders like Malik Tillman, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie absent from this camp, Reyna has a clear path to minutes—if he can demonstrate the maturity and commitment Pochettino demands.

For Reyna, these friendlies aren't just about soccer; they're about redemption and proving he can contribute positively to the team environment as the World Cup approaches.