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USMNT · World Cup 2026 Player Guide

Gio Reyna

Gio Reyna is the most naturally talented player the U.S. has ever produced — and also the most polarizing. The son of USMNT legends Claudio and Danielle Reyna grew up in Borussia Dortmund's first team and has been compared to Mesut Özil since he was 17. World Cup 2026 is his shot at putting the drama behind him and showing the full talent.

Position
Attacking Midfielder / Winger
Club
Borussia Mönchengladbach (loan from Borussia Dortmund)
League
Bundesliga (Germany)
Age
23
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Who is Gio Reyna and what's his career path?

Reyna joined Dortmund's academy at 16 after a brief stint at Manchester City's youth setup. He debuted in the Bundesliga at 17 and was a Champions League regular by 18. Injuries and squad disputes (including a famous fallout with USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter at the 2022 World Cup) have stalled his development, and he's currently on loan at Borussia Mönchengladbach trying to rebuild momentum.

What is Gio Reyna's playing style?

Reyna is a pure #10 — a creative attacking midfielder who plays between the lines, threads through-balls, and curls shots into the top corner. His left foot is the best of any American player ever, and his vision is genuinely elite. When he's healthy and playing freely, he looks like he belongs at any club in the world. The 'when' is the question.

What is Gio Reyna's role at the 2026 World Cup?

Reyna's role is the biggest open question on the USMNT. If he's fit and the new coaching staff trusts him, he could start at #10 behind Pulisic and unlock another level of creativity. Realistically, expect him to come off the bench in tournament games and be a difference-maker in 30-minute bursts.

The Premier League team to follow

If you love Gio Reyna's game, support Tottenham Hotspur FC

Reyna's creative, between-the-lines style is exactly what Tottenham builds around under Ange Postecoglou. Spurs play attacking, expressive soccer with an emphasis on flair players (James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski) — the same archetype Reyna fits. The fanbase is also the right vibe for a Reyna fan: emotional, dramatic, and used to talented players who sometimes infuriate them. Perfect match.

Fun facts about Gio Reyna

  • +Son of Claudio Reyna (former USMNT captain) and Danielle Egan (former U.S. Women's national team)
  • +Was born in Sunderland, England while his father played for the club — making him eligible for England
  • +Compared to Mesut Özil by his coaches at Dortmund
  • +Named after his godfather, Italian soccer legend Gianluca Vialli

Frequently asked questions

What team does Gio Reyna play for?

He's contracted to Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga but is currently on loan at Borussia Mönchengladbach for the 2025-26 season.

Why was Gio Reyna in the news at the 2022 World Cup?

He had a public fallout with then-USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter over playing time and effort in training. The dispute later led to Berhalter being temporarily removed as coach.

Which other USMNT players should I read about?