Gio Reyna, the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder, is set to represent the United States men's national team (USMNT) in his second consecutive World Cup, as reported by multiple sources. While Reyna was once regarded as one of the top young talents globally in 2022, his journey over the past four years has been challenging, particularly with limited playing time in Germany. This decision by manager Mauricio Pochettino raises several questions regarding Reyna's inclusion in the squad.

Reyna's Current Form and Playing Time

Pochettino has emphasized the importance of players performing well for their clubs to be considered for the national team. However, this criterion seems not to apply to Reyna, who has only accumulated 510 minutes in the Bundesliga this season. Among 26 American players in the top five European leagues, Reyna ranks 19th in terms of minutes played, which raises concerns about his match fitness and readiness for the World Cup.

Potential Impact on the Team

Despite his limited playing time, Reyna's potential contributions to the team cannot be overlooked. A significant moment came in September 2025 when he scored against Paraguay, showcasing not only his scoring ability but also the positive impact he has on his teammates. His skill on the ball and dribbling prowess can make him a valuable asset, particularly in a squad that lacks creative players. Even if he starts as a substitute, Reyna has the capability to change the dynamics of a match and elevate the team's performance.

As the USMNT prepares for the World Cup, Pochettino will have opportunities to evaluate Reyna's fitness during upcoming friendlies against Germany and Senegal. Reyna has also expressed his willingness to accept a role on the bench if necessary, indicating his maturity and commitment to the team's success. Ultimately, Pochettino's decision to include Reyna reflects a balance between current form and the potential for impact on the pitch.