News Focus
- Reyna scores first goal for Gladbach in 3-1 defeat to Augsburg
- American midfielder has started only five matches this season
- Two injury setbacks have limited his playing time at new club
- 23-year-old targets USA call-up for 2026 home World Cup
American playmaker Giovanni Reyna has ended his wait for a first goal at Borussia Mönchengladbach. The 23-year-old struck as a substitute during last weekend’s 3-1 loss away to FC Augsburg. His finish proved only a consolation, yet it offered hope that his fitness is returning at a crucial time.
The United States international joined Gladbach from rivals Borussia Dortmund last summer for €4 million. He hoped to secure regular minutes ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, his progress has stalled. Reyna has started just five of his 19 appearances for the club. Two separate injury blows have disrupted his rhythm.
“I came here to play more football,” Reyna told reporters this week. “I had some bad luck with injuries at the wrong moments. But I want more minutes on the pitch. The past few weeks have been better. I feel sharp again.”
The attacking midfielder says he is now fully fit ahead of Saturday’s final match against Hoffenheim. He wants to prove to USA coach Mauricio Pochettino that he deserves a place in the squad. The World Cup will take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer.
“No player is ever completely free from knocks,” Reyna admitted. “But I feel ready to play 90 minutes. I can give my maximum right now.”
Reyna has featured in four straight matches for the national team under Pochettino. Now he faces an anxious wait for the final squad announcement. The tournament on home soil means everything to him.
“It is in the back of my mind,” he said. “It is a World Cup in your home country. I try not to let it stress me out. I want to represent my country and help the team achieve something special.”
When asked if he has done enough to earn selection, Reyna remained cautious. “That is a difficult question,” he said. “If I say no, I am not backing myself. If I say yes, it sounds arrogant. The decision is not mine. I am just waiting for the call. It would be an honour to be there.”