USMNT midfielder Gio reyna looking to 'fight for more opportunities' after Borussia Dortmund start in Champions League vs Barcelona

U.S. international Gio Reyna has vowed to keep fighting for his sport in the Borussia Dortmund XI after the 22-year-old midfielder earned a rare start against FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

In just his second start of the season, and sixth appearance, across all competitions, the midfielder embraced the opportunity while sharing that he was thrilled that Nuri Sahin trusted him in the moment in the match.

Speaking postgame, Reyna was pleased with his performance, despite the club failing to earn three points.

"It was great. I'm just really happy to be back on the field, It's obviously when I'm happiest. When Nuri [Şahin, Dortmund head coach] told me that I get the chance to play, obviously I just want to take it and have a good game," Reyna said in an interview posted on Dortmund's social media. "He really just wanted me to play my game and use my ability on the ball and talents to find the ball in areas and get other guys involved, and I feel like I did a good job of that. Really just happy to be back out there today. I just have to take it and fight for more opportunities and look to really improve now."

Reyna featured in all three Group Stage matches for the USMNT at Copa America 2024, but failed to register a goal or an assist during the tournament. For club and country, his last assist came on April 13 against Wolverhampton in the Premier League while on loan at Nottingham Forest while his last goal was in the 2024 CONCACAF Nations League final against Mexico.

The Black and Yellow have two matches left in the calendar year, with Bundesliga contests against Hoffenheim and Wolfsburg on the cards. Reyna will look to capitalize on his start against Barcelona by earning more minutes to round out December.