Gio Reyna talks about his role, Reus and the coming season

Borussia Dortmund rising talent Gio Reyna was interviewed before the start of the season speaking about his ambitions and goals heading into the new year.

17 year old Gio Reyna is heading into his first full season as a professional and is looking to build off his impressive half year last season. After breaking into the Dortmund first team as a 16 year old in January, Reyna immediately impressed and worked his way into the starting XI. On top of that, he solidified Lucien Favre’s trust in him, which is crucial for him heading into this season.

Coming off the heels of a very impressive pre-season Reyna has put himself in contention for the starting XI going into Dortmund’s first game. As a very versatile player he could play in a number of roles depending on the formation but he’s best in the Marco Reus, number 10 spot. Coincidentally it’s Marco Reus that Reyna picked as the player he looks up to most on the team.

"“I’ll call Marco Reus. Not only is he our captain, he’s at the top of the list of players I always looked up to as a young footballer. He helps me so much on and off the pitch. Marco is an exceptional player who has done so much for this club.” – Gio Reyna"

Reyna also poked fun at the fact that he and Reus are realistically in competition for the same spot on the pitch, saying it would be a little easier for him if the Captain was still out injured. It may make Reyna’s life a bit easier but Dortmund getting their captain back is a massive boost heading into the season. Reus or no Reus, there is still lots of competition for sports in the Dortmund attack regardless.

Reyna is very motivated personally heading into this season with the clear goal of seeing as much game time as possible. That will surely come if he continues the way he has been playing in pre-season and continuing into the first round DFB Pokal tie he will likely feature in. Reyna is still looking for his first Bundesliga goal as well, although we likely won’t have to wait too long to see that happen.

Not only personal goals but Reyna and the Dortmund squad also have lofty goals heading into the season with their eyes set on more than just second place.

"“Personally, I want to win every game, that also applies to my teammates. We’re not going into the season and expect Bayern to become champions. We expect to become masters. And I think our chances are pretty good. It is my most important goal that we win the Bundesliga. ” – Gio Reyna"

The sky is the limit for Reyna heading into this season, it will all depend on his ability to build off last year.