In a recent episode of Alexi Lalas’ own podcast, Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union, he delved into United States International, Gio Reyna’s current situation ahead of the Club World Cup. Gio Reyna has featured in 24 matches this season in all competitions, but most of those appearances came from the bench. He’s scored twice, assisted once, and recorded 603 minutes. It’s hardly the profile of someone ready to shine on the world stage. Lalas had this to say:
"When it comes to Giovanni Reyna, I think the real interesting question - he continues to not be involved… We know he has been persona non grata when it comes to Dortmund now for a long time, but how does that play into this summer, relative to the Club World Cup, which - if he is still on the books - he would be theirs and available… And we have talked about how, between the Gold Cup and the Club World Cup, the Club World Cup takes precedent for players like Weah and McKennie over there in Juventus, right? So, do you bring him? Do you not bring him? Do you just let him go and play?... And who knows, when all is said and done, he might have the whole summer off. He might not be part of the Gold Cup roster or the Club World Cup roster."Alexi Lalas
It's no secret that Gio Reyna has failed to make an impression under new manager Niko Kovač, but he will still likely be part of Borussia Dortmund’s Club World Cup squad, even if he’s reserved to the bench. Whether he transfers later this summer is another question entirely.
I do think Lalas’ sentiment makes sense. If Gio knows he will have a limited role at the Club World Cup, then would it make more sense for him to play in the Gold Cup with his fellow USMNT players? The American has found himself in a precarious situation. He recently offered his thoughts on the tournament being in his home country. More on Gio Reyna’s interview here.