Gio Reyna has secured a move away from Borussia Dortmund after another lost season sitting on the bench, joining Borussia Monchengladbach. He isn’t going far, the journey between Signal Iduna Park and BORUSSIA-PARK is just over an hour, but it’s a move that brings a breath of fresh air, and a new perspective for Reyna in a critical juncture of his career.

It’s easy to forget that Reyna is only 22, but he’s now married and entering his 7th season in Germany. If Reyna can secure regular playing time at Gladbach, this move could open a new more mature chapter in his career, and help him make the United States men’s national team for the 2026 World Cup. This brings pressure, but it’s nothing new for Reyna.

Reyna was left out of Mauricio Pochettino’s squad for the September friendlies against South Korea and Japan, but that doesn’t mean the door is closed. Reyna stated in an interview with the DFL, “I can’t be mad about it. Of course, I want to be back in, but I know that’s only possible with playing time and performing well. So, that’s how it is, that’s how it should be.”

Arriving at a new team at this stage in his career, Reyna knew he needed a club that would provide him with the playing time necessary to re-enter the national squad. He believes Gladbach is the right fit.

Reyna emphasized the positive influence of the coach: “Speaking to the coach gave me a really good feeling. It’s a big club that still has ambitions in the Bundesliga, so I think it’s another opportunity for me to get on the field and find my rhythm again,” he said. “It’s a change that was needed. I am really happy to be here at Gladbach.”

After having fewer than 500 league minutes between Dortmund and a underwhelming loan at Nottingham Forest, a fresh start is critical for Reyna. Injuries and external pressures have hindered his performance, but at 22, he has the time to rejuvenate his career.

The familiarity of his surroundings and reuniting with friend Joe Scally, who also plays at Gladbach, will help him ease into the new environment. They have had a strong connection since their time in the New York City FC academy and with USMNT. Scally is excited about Reyna’s arrival: “I think we’ve been missing some creativity and physical presence in the midfield and that attacking role, so I think he can help us with that. Bringing us that confidence and football knowledge could really help.”

Reyna’s focus is not just on friendship, but on making a decision that benefits his career. As he settles into Gladbach, he aims for consistent performances to reclaim his spot in the national team ahead of a World Cup on home soil.

Reyna highlighted the implications of consistent playing time, stressing the urgency of his opportunities to secure a place on the national team. His discussions with Pochettino reinforced that players must be in rhythm to earn their spots.

With his experience and the understanding of what to bring to the table, Reyna believes he has the tools to succeed at Gladbach. His ability to drive the play and evade defenders can revitalize the club’s ambitions in Europe. The importance of the player’s match with the club’s needs shines brightly in this transitional phase, providing a timely boost for both Reyna and the USMNT.