Gio Reyna, recalled to the USMNT despite just 26 club minutes in 2026, signals Pochettino’s faith ahead of friendlies vs Belgium and Portugal. Betting angle: avoid Reyna anytime-goal markets; consider USMNT overs or goal-creation props—value on the U.S. to score at least once and on Reyna to record a chance-created or assist at longer odds.
Gio Reyna Recalled to USMNT Despite Minimal Club Time
Gio Reyna has been brought back into the U.S. men’s national team setup even though he has logged just 26 first-team minutes for Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2026, a World Cup year. The 23-year-old’s limited club action contrasts with manager Mauricio Pochettino’s insistence that Reyna is “a very special talent and very special player,” and worthy of a spot for the upcoming friendlies in Atlanta against Belgium and Portugal.
Pochettino’s Vote of Confidence
Pochettino has departed from a strict requirement that players be in top club form, at least in Reyna’s case. The coach emphasized Reyna’s potential contribution to the national side: “We know how he can add to the national team ... And he is capable of performing with us.” That faith follows Reyna’s strong late-2025 showings for the U.S., including a goal against Paraguay and an assist in a 5–1 win over Uruguay.
Recent International Form
Despite scarce minutes at club level, Reyna was influential for the USMNT in the fall, proving he can impact games from the bench and as a starter in the national setup. Pochettino highlighted Reyna’s November performances as evidence of his value to the squad.
Club Situation and Fitness Concerns
Reyna has not scored for Borussia Mönchengladbach or previously Borussia Dortmund in more than a year but has shown liveliness across 398 Bundesliga minutes this season. He battled a thigh injury and other fitness issues earlier in the campaign and has been an unused substitute with the Gladbach first team since February.
Tactical Role: Central in a 3-5-2?
With the national team employing a 3-5-2 formation, Reyna is likely to be considered for a central creative role, potentially partnering with fellow Bundesliga midfielder Malik Tillman and Sebastian Berhalter. Pochettino appears willing to prioritize tactical fit and international chemistry over current club minutes.
Christian Pulisic’s Selection and Form
Christian Pulisic joins the camp amid a goal drought—no goals in his last 11 appearances for AC Milan—but he continues to get regular minutes at club level and has compiled eight goals and two assists earlier in the season. Pochettino defended his inclusion: “He’s not scoring, but to me it’s not only about scoring goals. I am happy with the way he is performing, his commitment to the team, and the time he is playing.”
Roster Timeline and World Cup Implications
Pochettino is expected to name his 26-player World Cup roster in May. The team will have final tune-ups against Germany and Senegal in June before opening the World Cup on June 12 against Paraguay in Los Angeles. Reyna’s recall signals he remains in the coach’s plans despite club-level inactivity.
What This Means for Bettors
Reyna’s selection dampens the appeal of anytime-goal bets on him given his limited minutes and lack of recent club scoring, but his creative role offers alternative market value.
Tuchel: Dowman has World Cup squad 'chance'
Punters may find better odds on USMNT overs (team goals) or on Reyna to record an assist or create key chances. Monitor starting lineups—if Reyna starts centrally, assist/chance-created props could offer longer-shot payouts.
Si
