Giovanni Reyna Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 28, 2025
Giovanni Reyna has evolved from a promising teenage talent into a key figure at Borussia Dortmund, a linchpin for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), and one of the most technically gifted midfielders in Europe.
With his vision, composure, and relentless drive, Reyna has not only fulfilled the immense expectations placed upon him—he has begun to transcend them.
Then: The Early Years – A Football Legacy in the Making (2002–2019)
1. Born into Football Royalty
Born on November 13, 2002, in Bradford, England, Giovanni Alexander Reyna was destined for football. His parents, Claudio Reyna and Danielle Egan, were both U.S. international soccer stars, and his father served as a sporting director for New York City FC.
Growing up in a football-centric household, Giovanni was immersed in the game from infancy. He trained with youth teams in England and later in the U.S., developing a technical foundation, intelligent movement, and emotional maturity beyond his years.
2. Rise Through the NYCFC Academy
Reyna joined New York City FC’s youth academy in 2016. Coaches were immediately struck by his first touch, spatial awareness, and ability to dictate tempo. By 2018, he was training with the first team.
At 16, he made his professional debut for NYCFC in March 2019—becoming one of the youngest players in MLS history at the time.
3. The Move to Borussia Dortmund – A Leap of Faith
In August 2020, at just 17 years old, Reyna made a bold decision: he signed with Borussia Dortmund, one of Europe’s most renowned clubs for developing young talent.
It was a high-risk, high-reward move—leaving the comfort of home for the physical, fast-paced Bundesliga. But for Reyna, it was the only path to elite development.
Related: Moussa Diaby Then and Now
The Rise: Breakthrough and Challenges (2020–2023)
1. Explosive Debut and Instant Impact
Reyna’s debut for Dortmund in January 2020 was nothing short of sensational. Coming off the bench, he scored and assisted in a 5–3 win over Augsburg, instantly becoming a fan favorite.
His early performances showcased:
- Elite close control in tight spaces
- Vision and incisive passing
- Fearlessness against top defenders
By the 2020–21 season, he was a regular in the squad, playing alongside Erling Haaland, Jadon Sancho, and Marco Reus.
2. Setbacks and Resilience
Despite his talent, Reyna’s rise was not without obstacles:
- Persistent injuries – hamstring issues, muscle strains, and fatigue
- Competition for places in a stacked midfield
- Adapting to the physical demands of the Bundesliga
There were moments of frustration—benches, loan rumors, and questions about his durability. But Reyna remained committed, working closely with fitness staff and mentors to improve his resilience.
3. USMNT Breakthrough
On the international stage, Reyna made his senior debut for the USMNT in November 2020—becoming the youngest U.S. player to score in a competitive match at the time.
He played a vital role in:
- Qualifying for the 2022 FIFA World Cup
- The 2021 CONCACAF Nations League victory
- The 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he started in key matches despite injury setbacks
Though the U.S. didn’t advance past the Round of 16, Reyna’s composure and creativity marked him as the future of American midfield.
Related: Sofyan Amrabat Then and Now
Now: The Star of 2025 – Maturity, Leadership, and Dominance
1. A Key Pillar at Borussia Dortmund
By 2025, Giovanni Reyna has fully emerged as a first-team cornerstone under new Dortmund manager Nuri Şahin. After years of injury battles, he has finally achieved consistency and peak fitness, playing over 40 matches in the 2024–25 season.
His role has evolved:
- Now often deployed as a central attacking midfielder or false nine
- Trusted with set-piece duties and game management
- One of the team’s top assist providers and creative leaders
In the 2024–25 Bundesliga campaign, he recorded:
- 12 goals
- 18 assists
- Named Bundesliga Player of the Month (December 2024, March 2025)
Dortmund, under his influence, challenged for the league title and reached the UEFA Champions League semifinals—their best run in years.
2. Captaincy and Leadership for the USMNT
With the retirement of older stars like Michael Bradley and Gyasi Zardes, Reyna has stepped into a leadership role for the U.S. national team.
In 2025, he was named vice-captain under Tyler Adams, and many expect him to inherit the armband in the coming years.
He played a pivotal role in the 2024 Copa América, where the U.S. reached the semifinals—Reyna scoring a stunning goal against Mexico in the quarterfinals.
He’s also a key figure in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will co-host. Reyna is widely seen as the on-field general who will lead the Stars and Stripes on home soil.
3. Technical Evolution and Playing Style
By 2025, Reyna’s game has matured significantly:
- More physical presence – improved strength and endurance
- Greater defensive contribution – pressing, tracking back
- Smarter decision-making – fewer risky dribbles, more efficient play
- Clinical finishing – now a consistent goal threat
He’s no longer just a “number 10”—he’s a complete modern midfielder, capable of controlling games from deep or exploding forward.
4. Off the Pitch: Brand, Influence, and Advocacy
Reyna has become a marketable star in the U.S. and beyond:
- Partnered with Nike, EA Sports, and Gatorade
- Featured on the cover of FIFA 25 (Ultimate Edition) in the U.S.
- Over 5 million followers on Instagram and growing
He uses his platform to:
- Promote youth soccer development
- Advocate for mental health awareness
- Support Latino and immigrant communities in the U.S.
He’s also involved with the Reyna Foundation, founded by his parents, which provides soccer opportunities for underserved youth.
Related: Édouard Mendy Then and Now
Personal Life and Character
Giovanni Reyna remains grounded despite his fame. He speaks fluent English and Spanish, and is learning German to deepen his connection with Dortmund fans.
He lives in Dortmund during the season and spends summers in the U.S., often training with youth academies and mentoring young players.
Known for his quiet confidence and humility, Reyna credits his success to his family, faith, and relentless work ethic. He often says:
“I don’t play for fame. I play for my country, my family, and every kid who dreams big.”
Related: N’Golo Kanté Then and Now
Cultural Impact and Legacy (In 2025)
Giovanni Reyna represents a new era of American football:
- Technically refined
- Globally experienced
- Mentally tough
He’s part of a generation—alongside Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Yunus Musah—that is proving Americans can not only compete in Europe but lead in top leagues.
In Germany, he’s known as “Der Amerikanische Maestro”—a nod to his elegance and intelligence.
In the U.S., he’s a symbol of progress—proof that American players can develop world-class technical skills and thrive in elite environments.
Related: Casemiro Then and Now
Conclusion: Giovanni Reyna – Then and Now (In 2025)
- Then: A 17-year-old with a famous name, stepping into the spotlight at Borussia Dortmund, carrying the weight of expectation.
- Now: A 22-year-old leader, playing at the highest level, inspiring a nation, and shaping the future of U.S. soccer.
Giovanni Reyna’s journey is one of patience, perseverance, and purpose. He didn’t rush his rise. He earned it—through injury, doubt, and quiet determination.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on him.
And if 2025 is any indication?
Giovanni Reyna isn’t just ready.
He’s leading the way.
⚽ “I’m not trying to be the next anyone. I’m trying to be the first me—for my country, my team, and my dream.” – Giovanni Reyna
Related: Thiago Silva Then and Now