Gio Reyna has completed a transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Borussia Monchengladbach, seeking a fresh start after another season marred by limited playing time. While the distance between Signal Iduna Park and BORUSSIA-PARK is short, this move represents a significant shift for Reyna, offering a crucial new perspective at a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career.
Despite being only 22, Reyna is already a married man embarking on his seventh season in Germany. Should he secure consistent playing time at Gladbach, this transfer could usher in a more mature phase of his career, potentially re-establishing him as a key figure for the United States Men`s National Team for the 2026 World Cup. Such an opportunity comes with immense pressure, a challenge Reyna is well-acquainted with.
Reyna`s recent omission from Mauricio Pochettino`s squad for the September USMNT friendlies against South Korea and Japan does not signal the end of his national team aspirations. Reyna himself acknowledged the decision, stating in a DFL interview, “I can`t be mad about it. Of course, I want to be back in, but I know that`s only possible with playing time and performing well. So, that`s how it is, that`s how it should be.”
Approaching this pivotal career stage, Reyna sought specific qualities in a new German club, and Gladbach evidently met his criteria. Beyond the promise of consistent playing time crucial for his national team return, the emotional connection and overall club environment were equally important factors for him.
“Firstly, my conversation with the coach left me with a very positive impression. Feeling truly wanted, and joining a prominent club with strong ambitions for a respectable Bundesliga finish, presents a fantastic opportunity for me to play, regain my rhythm, and kickstart my career once more,” Reyna elaborated. “This was a necessary change, and I`m genuinely delighted to be here at Gladbach.”
With less than 500 league minutes amassed over the past few seasons across his time at Dortmund and an unsuccessful loan spell at Nottingham Forest, a fresh beginning is paramount for Reyna. His career trajectory has been hampered by injuries, external distractions beyond his influence, and falling out of favor in Dortmund`s plans. However, his youth suggests a swift return to form is entirely plausible if Gladbach proves to be the ideal environment.
Remaining in a familiar and comfortable city will undoubtedly aid his transition. Furthermore, Reyna is reunited with a long-time acquaintance, Joe Scally. The Gladbach right-back and Reyna developed together in the New York City FC academy and have maintained a close bond through their time in Düsseldorf and with the USMNT. While a broader USMNT contingent exists in Germany, including James Sands at St. Pauli, the presence of a direct countryman in the same squad offers unique support. Scally, well-versed in Reyna`s strengths, believes he can be a significant asset to Gladbach.
“Having played with Gio for such a long time, I`m intimately familiar with his entire skillset on the field,” Scally remarked. “I believe we`ve been lacking a certain level of creativity and a stronger physical presence in both the midfield and attacking positions, areas where I think he can genuinely enhance our team. Moreover, he brings valuable experience, having already competed at a top club. His confidence and footballing acumen could be incredibly beneficial to us.”
For Reyna, this move transcends simply playing alongside a friend; it was a carefully considered decision based on his personal and professional best interests. Though still early, he feels a strong sense of welcome at the club, which is crucial for delivering strong performances. He understands the imperative to make an immediate impact, not just to elevate Gladbach`s league standing but also to secure his place back in the national team rotation, particularly with a home World Cup on the horizon.
Reyna recounted his discussions with Pochettino, where the message was clear: players must maintain rhythm and play regularly to earn their spots on the national team. This principle has become even more critical, given Pochettino`s readiness to call up players from diverse leagues – whether Major League Soccer, Argentina, or elsewhere – if he believes they can genuinely contribute. Consequently, consistent playing time is an absolutely paramount factor.
“His staff assured me that if I play and perform effectively, I definitely have a chance to re-enter the national team fold, and I fully believe that,” Reyna stated.
Despite his youth, Reyna possesses considerable experience and the inherent talent to thrive at Gladbach, having previously displayed flashes of brilliance at Dortmund. When in peak form, he is one of the rare players capable of carrying the ball from one end of the field to the other, skillfully navigating past defenders. This ability could introduce a dynamic new dimension to a club aspiring to return to European competition, underscoring the mutually beneficial alignment between a player`s potential and a club`s strategic requirements.
Undoubtedly, this transfer places considerable pressure on Reyna, yet this is a familiar challenge throughout his career. The crucial elements now are a genuine fresh start and the support of coaches who explicitly believe in his abilities. This change was essential, and with the USMNT also seeking a revitalizing spark in their own play, this move arrives at an impeccably opportune moment for both Reyna and the national squad.
