Gio Reyna Excited for U.S. National Team Return

Gio Reyna expresses eagerness to don the U.S. jersey once again as he looks back on his 2022 World Cup experience, which was marked by significant controversy within the U.S. men’s national team.

After a rocky past with former head coach Gregg Berhalter, who nearly sent Reyna home for a perceived lack of effort, the young player has managed to regain favor with the USMNT. This situation sparked tense dynamics between the Reyna and Berhalter families.

The 23-year-old from Bedford, New York, has since moved past that incident and caught the eye of Mauricio Pochettino, securing a spot on the 2026 World Cup roster.

“I think it was—well, I guess you could say—expected for a bit, but it’s finally happening and that’s how it goes,” Reyna shared. “I just want to contribute to the team in every way I can and keep things straightforward. Really looking forward to it.”

“I’m just really grateful for another opportunity to represent my country at the World Cup,” he added.

Pochettino mentioned that Reyna’s performance at the recent USMNT camp, where he scored a goal against Paraguay and assisted a goal against Uruguay, played a role in his selection.

The coach appreciates Reyna as a “great talent” who “contributes in various aspects of the game,” though he suggested that Reyna might not start in every match.

Meanwhile, center-back Chris Richards was also named to the U.S. 26-man roster. However, his health remains uncertain after suffering a serious injury at Crystal Palace, where he tore two ankle ligaments.

Richards has returned to training and Pochettino remarked that they would assess his status after seeing if he plays in the UEFA Conference League final, before making any further decisions.

The USMNT has to finalize its roster for FIFA by June 1, with the option to make substitutions for injuries up to 24 hours before their opening match in the World Cup.