Mauricio Pochettino alienates USMNT fans after Gio Reyna World Cup selection
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already dividing USMNT soccer fans before the tournament begins thanks to manager Mauricio Pochettino’s interesting roster choices. The full American squad isn’t revealed yet, but some important decisions are leaking, including Gio Reyna’s inclusion. Reyna is the son of former USA star Claudio Reyna, who appeared at three World Cups for America.
MORE: USMNT World Cup squads ranked, from 1990 to 2026 However, Pochettino’s decision to bring Gio for this summer’s World Cup marks an ominous sign for the U. S. team heading into the tournament that they co-host alongside Canada and Mexico.
NEWS: Gio Reyna, who was a part of the 2022 World Cup team but was nearly sent home from the tournament due to behavioral issues, has been selected to Mauricio Pochettino’s 2026 USMNT roster, multiple sources tell @PaulTenorio and @tombogert . An official squad announcement is… pic. twitter.
com/8PFsiYzsyb — The Athletic (@TheAthletic) May 22, 2026 The biggest issue immediately posed by fans is that Reyna simply hasn’t performed at a level worthy of stealing a roster spot from other top players. Also, The Athletic announced that Reyna’s inclusion leaves Diego Luna without a place in the team. Luna proved to be one of the most valuable midfielders for the Americans in recent months.
The Real Salt Lake star has 14 goals in the past two seasons in MLS and continues to raise his stock ahead of the World Cup. Meanwhile, Reyna’s featured in just 19 games in Germany for Borussia Monchengladbach and hasn’t been particularly impressive with his limited minutes. Pochettino’s creating major USMNT World Cup squad drama The bigger issue for Pochettino and the USMNT though is Reyna’s past behavior.