After more than a year, Gio Reyna is finally playing again for Borussia Dortmund.
A lot has changed for the U.S. attacking midfielder, who could be a valuable player for the team and the U.S. at the 2026 home World Cup. Reina’s starting role in Wednesday’s 3-2 loss to Barcelona was a sign that he has a future. Even in Dortmund.
Reina failed to make much of an impact during his 73 minutes against Barcelona, but he also looked out of place. And despite the recurring injuries that have hampered Reina’s club career, he has looked fit enough to continue in action.
“It was great. I was really, really happy to be back on the field. This is definitely when I’m happiest,” Reyna said in a video interview released by the club early Thursday.
“(Coach Nuri Sahin) really wanted me to play my game and use my ball-handling ability and flair to find the ball in the area and get other players involved. I think I did a good job of that,” Reina added. Yes. . “I’m really happy to be back today. I just have to embrace it and fight for more opportunities and now really work to improve.”
Reina has had a hugely disappointing loan spell at Nottingham Forest since his last appearance in a Dortmund game on November 1, 2023. On the other hand, Dortmund advanced to the Champions League final without Reina. Manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Reina could now get more opportunities for Dortmund, starting from Sunday’s game against Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, in place of the injured Julian Brandt.
(relevant: Why Gio Reyna should seriously consider a loan to LA Galaxy)
Joining Reina in Dortmund’s attack on Wednesday was 20-year-old England winger Jamie Gittens, who has stood out with nine goals this season, and 18-year-old Julien Duranville, who impressed in his first start of the season.
Dortmund’s problem lies at the other end.
Dortmund finished the match without a suitable central defender due to Niko Schlotterbeck’s serious ankle injury in the closing stages of the game. Losing Schlotterbeck would be “completely devastating,” coach Sahin told broadcaster DAZN on Wednesday.
Schlotterbeck was already working with midfielder Emre Can in the defense, with Niklas Süle out for several months and Waldemar Anton’s return from a muscle injury unclear.
Schlotterbeck has suffered ligament damage, but the club did not disclose his recovery period on Thursday and said it was “doubtful” he would be able to play again before the New Year.
The positive thing for Dortmund is that there are only two games left until the 19-day winter break, which begins after the Wolfsburg game on December 22nd.
The Associated Press reported.
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