Gio Reyna Vows USMNT Comeback After Rocky Gladbach Start: "I Will Be There"

Despite suffering a crushing loss, Gio Reyna remains focused on the U.S. men's national team and the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The American playmaker made his first appearance for Borussia Mönchengladbach on Sunday after his move from Borussia Dortmund. However, things didn't go according to plan, as a 4–0 loss to Werder Bremen left Gladbach sitting in 16th place in the Bundesliga following three games.

Following his arrival from Dortmund in a deal reportedly worth up to $7 million, Reyna was absent from the team's opening two fixtures of the campaign while working on his physical condition, before finally getting his first start on Sunday.

The 22-year-old featured for 74 minutes in the loss, mainly operating in the attacking midfielder position, where he contributed by setting up an opportunity with a pass to Robin Hack, and registered three attempts on goal during a match where his team was thoroughly dominated.

While the defeat may not generate significant headlines, his return to consistent playing time in Germany's premier division caught notice, particularly as he voiced his confidence and optimism about earning a spot in Mauricio Pochettino's USMNT squad for the summer.

"I have confidence I'll be there. That was among the motivations for my transfer [to Gladbach]," he shared with BILD following the game. "I maintain regular communication with the coach [Mauricio Pochettino]. If I perform well here, I will certainly find my path back to the national squad.

"I've reached a stage where I want to advance further and elevate my career to new heights. I feel prepared for this challenge, which is why I joined Gladbach."

If he aims to participate in the World Cup, he must not only enhance his performance and secure substantial playing time, but also earn selection for an upcoming USMNT camp, after Pochettino indicated the team will begin concentrating on World Cup roster construction following a September international break that included a defeat to South Korea and victory over Japan.

Reyna's fellow American, Joe Scally, remained on the bench Sunday and seems to be far down Pochettino's defensive depth chart, particularly with the USMNT potentially continuing to utilize a three-center-back formation going forward.

Gladbach will resume Bundesliga play on Sept. 21 versus Bayer Leverkusen, with Reyna and Scally targeting October USMNT exhibitions against Australia and Ecuador.

"Naturally, I want to return to [the USMNT], but I understand that's only achievable through game time and strong performances," Reyna stated. "That's the reality. That's how it should be as well."