Borussia Dortmund’s Giovanni Reyna is on course to be the next young star that everyone talks about. Currently, at Dortmund, Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho are wanted by Europe’s elite. Reyna will not be far behind. At just 17 years old, the talented youngster is on course to be the next wonder-kid to take the football world by storm.
The Big Time Awaits For Borussia Dortmund’s Giovanni Reyna
Football is in His Blood
The likelihood that Gio Reyna would become a footballer was high. His father is the former Rangers, Sunderland and USA midfielder Claudio Reyna, while his mother is Danielle Egan Reyna, a former USA international.
Born in Sunderland, England, in 2002, the opportunity to represent England, the USA and Portugal would present itself in later years. Moving to America at the age of seven, Reyna would soon begin making his mark.
Star at Just 14 Years Old
Following a move back to the United States, Gio’s father Claudio was appointed sporting director of New York City FC. It was with the club that Gio would take his first steps to become a professional footballer.
At just 14, Reyna helped his club win the Generation Adidas Cup. A competition for Under 17’s. Reyna impressed so much that he was named Player of the Tournament.
Durning the prestigious Torneo delle Nazioni youth tournament, Reyna starred for the USA U15s. His four goals and four assists helped his country win the tournament. One of the youngsters’ goals was the winner in the final against his country of birth, England.
Taking Dortmund By Storm
Following a strong campaign for New York City’s youth team, in which the attacking midfielder scored 13 goals in 17 appearances, Reyna moved to Dortmund. At the time he was just 16 years old.
Beginning in the Dortmund youth side, Reyna was quickly promoted to the senior side. In January 2020, 17-year-old Reyna became the youngest ever American to play in the Bundesliga when he made his debut as a substitute against FC Augsburg.
The following month, Reyna would score his first senior goal when he netted in the German Cup. In doing so, he became the youngest ever goalscorer in the competition. In the same month, Reyna came on as a substitute in the last 16 game of the Champions League against Paris Saint-Germain. Nine minutes after coming on, Reyna set up the winner.
Since making his debut in January, Reyna has gone on to make 11 appearances. The 17-year-old has become a fixture in the Dortmund first-team squad and is set to have a big future at the club and in football.
Gio Reyna Commits to USA National Team
Much to the delight of American soccer, Reyna has ended speculation as to which country he will represent. Speaking to Ruhr Nachrichten, Reyna said:“I am aware of the rumours but it’s very clear for me: I will only play for the United States, that’s my home.”
This will disappoint not only his country of birth in England but also Portugal, who he qualifies for. However, for the USA he is set to be a star for many years to come.
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