Gio Reyna

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Gio Reyna's FIFA World Cup 2026 Prospects Bolstered by Consistent Club Play and Impressive USMNT Performances

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, Gio Reyna's prospects for a significant role with the USMNT are looking increasingly positive, following his recent move to Borussia Mönchengladbach and a return to consistent form and fitness. After a period plagued by injuries and limited playing time at Borussia Dortmund, Reyna's career has seen a resurgence in late 2025 and early 2026.

Latest News and Club Performance:

Reyna completed a permanent transfer to Borussia Mönchengladbach in August 2025, seeking more regular first-team action. While his debut in September 2025 resulted in a 4-0 loss to Werder Bremen, he played 75 minutes and showed flashes of his creative ability.

Crucially, as of early January 2026, Reyna has become a regular starter for Gladbach, featuring in their last four competitive matches. He recorded his first assist for the club in a 3-1 Bundesliga loss to VfL Wolfsburg. Gladbach's interim manager, Eugen Polanski, has expressed significant satisfaction with Reyna's training and his improved performance levels, noting that his past injury concerns seem to be behind him for now. This consistent playing time and positive feedback from his club manager are vital for his national team aspirations.

USMNT Analysis and Prospects:

Reyna's performances for the USMNT in November 2025 further highlighted his importance to the squad. He scored a goal in a 2-1 friendly win against Paraguay and provided an assist in a 5-1 victory over Uruguay, boosting his standing within the national team setup.

USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino has consistently emphasized that Reyna's inclusion in the World Cup squad hinges on his ability to play consistently and perform well at the club level. This message appears to have resonated with Reyna, who explicitly stated his move to Gladbach was motivated by his desire to be part of the World Cup on home soil.

Pundits and former players echo this sentiment. USMNT legend Clint Dempsey has stressed that if Reyna can demonstrate sustained fitness and the ability to play 90 minutes week in and week out, he becomes an undeniable asset to the national team due to his difference-making quality. Similarly, analyst Alexi Lalas praised Reyna's recent surge in playing time and form at Gladbach, considering it "rarified air" and the true context in which his contributions should be judged.

Reyna's talent has never been in doubt, but his career has been hampered by a series of injuries. His current run of consistent appearances and positive performances for Borussia Mönchengladbach, coupled with impactful showings for the USMNT, position him favorably for a significant role in the FIFA World Cup 2026, provided he maintains his fitness and continues to deliver tangible contributions for his club.