Gio Reyna Maps His Comeback Journey to Reclaim USMNT Spot Before 2026 World Cup
Gio Reyna must demonstrate consistent playing time and strong performances for U.S. men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino to include him in 2026 World Cup plans, the American midfielder disclosed.
Reyna, previously a central figure in USMNT strategy, hasn't represented his nation since March 23 during the Concacaf Nations League third-place playoff. He has faced limited playing opportunities at club level in recent seasons due to recurring injury problems.
The 22-year-old characterized the 2026 FIFA World Cup as "a destination where I must and desire to be" during a conversation with the Associated Press.
"I believe Pochettino was extremely direct in stating, 'You must get playing time, deliver results, and if you accomplish that, you'll have a strong opportunity to return. The responsibility lies entirely with me now," Reyna explained.
Reyna Concentrating on Maintaining Health Following Multiple Injuries
The saying goes that being available equals being dependable, a quality Reyna has found difficult to maintain for an extended period.
Various muscular problems and a bone fracture have caused him to miss significant periods over the past five years. Just this past year, the ex-Borussia Dortmund player had limited appearances at both club and international levels following a groin injury. He hasn't completed a full 90-minute professional league match since 2022.
After his summer transfer to Borussia Monchengladbach, fitness concerns and a thigh problem have limited him to only 120 Bundesliga minutes.
"I've gained significant knowledge about my physical condition. This involves approaching fitness training as more of a conversation with the club's conditioning staff and discovering alternative methods to handle the psychological pressure of another injury," Reyna stated.
Maintaining physical health will be crucial for Reyna to make an impression on Pochettino.
Battle for Squad Positions
While Reyna pursues stability, he must also compete against players already making positive impressions on Pochettino during international assignments.
Particularly noteworthy is Malik Tillman, another American competing in the Bundesliga.
Reyna typically operates as an attacking midfielder but has also featured in wide positions. Tillman excelled during the Concacaf Gold Cup in a comparable role while other prominent stars were unavailable. Despite Pochettino apparently moving away from his 4-2-3-1 formation, which requires a playmaker, toward a 3-4-3 setup, Tillman performed excellently in a wide role during a friendly match against Ecuador.
Additionally blocking Reyna's path is Real Salt Lake talent Diego Luna, who became Pochettino's first substitution choice when Christian Pulisic suffered an injury against Australia.
Nevertheless, all three players belong to the same age group. Should Reyna manage to regain the fitness and form that brought him success at Dortmund, the USMNT could possess abundant attacking talent for the home World Cup.