USA international Gio Reyna has clarified why he played a limited role at the World Cup.
As Greg Berhalter’s side made quite the impression in Qatar, many wondered why the Borussia Dortmund wonderkid was on the periphery of things.
After all, the 20-year-old is classed as one of the best young talents in Europe.
So much so that at one point, Manchester City were considering signing both him and Erling Haaland in the same summer, as per 90 Min.
Additionally, Bild had also reported once that Jurgen Klopp was interested in signing the silky attacker at Liverpool.
Reyna on why he barely featured at the World Cup
In an in-depth statement on Instagram, Gio Reyna clarified, “I hoped not to comment on matters at the World Cup.”
He continued, “It is my belief that things that happen in a team setting ought to remain private. That being said, statements have been made that reflect on my professionalism and character, so I feel the need to make a brief statement.”
“Just before the World Cup, Coach Berhalter told me my role at the tournament would be very limited. I was devastated. I am someone who plays with pride and passion. Soccer is my life and I believe in my abilities.”
“I fully expected and desperately wanted to contribute to the play of a talented group as we tried to make a statement at the World Cup.”
“I am also an emotional person, and I fully acknowledge that I let me emotions get the best of me and affect my training and behaviour for a few days after learning about my limited role.”
“I apologized to my teammates and coach for this, and I was forgiven. Thereafter, I shook off my disappointment and gave everything I had on and off the field.”
“I am disappointed that there is continuing coverage of this matter (as well as some highly fictionalized versions of events) and extremely surprised that anyone on the U.S Men’s national team would contribute to it.”
“Coach Berhalter has always said that issues that arise with the team will stay ‘in house’, so we can focus on team unity and progress.”
“I love my team, I love representing my country and I am focusing now only on growing and improving as a soccer player and a person. I hope that going forward, each person involved in U.S Soccer focuses only on what is in the best interest of the men’s national team so we can enjoy great successes at the World Cup in 2026.”
It’s safe to say that Gio Reyna spoke his mind in his tell-all statement.
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