Christian Pulisic supports Gio Reyna’s USMNT call-up despite limited club minutes ahead of the World Cup
Giovanni Reyna has been included in the latest United States men’s national team squad by head coach Mauricio Pochettino for the March friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, despite a difficult season at club level.
Pochettino has generally favoured players who are performing consistently for their clubs, but has made an exception in Reyna’s case, seemingly based on the belief that his talent and past impact for the national team outweigh his lack of recent minutes.
It has been a frustrating campaign for the 23-year-old, who has struggled for rhythm at Borussia Mönchengladbach. Injuries, including groin and muscular issues, have limited him to just 14 appearances across all competitions.
In the Bundesliga, Reyna has played around 410 minutes and is yet to register a goal or assist.
Despite that, AC Milan forward Christian Pulisic believes his international teammate still has plenty to offer.
“He looks good in training. I’m not super familiar with the club situation, but off what he’s done for this team and big moments as well, he deserves to be here,” Pulisic said.
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“He’s a really talented player. There’s no reason why I can’t see him playing this coming week and making a difference for the team. There’s no doubt about it.”
Gio Reyna on USMNT call-up: I’m fortunate
Reyna himself acknowledged that his USMNT inclusion may raise eyebrows, but made it clear he is ready to contribute if called upon.
“I guess you could say it was sort of one of his more difficult decisions, or, I guess controversial decisions to maybe bring me in,” Reyna said about Mauricio Pochettino.
“[I] can’t appreciate it enough. Love this team, love this staff, love this group of people, so just always honoured to be here. And yeah, of course, same time, I feel prepared, regardless of the playing time situation at club.”
While admitting that regular football would help, the midfielder insisted he feels ready to make an impact.
“[I] think it’s always easier when you’re playing week-in and week-out. My case is not like that,” Reyna added. “[I’m] fortunate and of course, always honoured and happy to be back in with the coach’s trust. But yeah, if the opportunity comes up, I still feel very prepared to make an impact this camp on the field.”
