'A change was needed' - USMNT's Giovanni Reyna embraces fresh start at Borussia Mönchengladbach after Dortmund departure

U.S. international Giovanni Reyna revealed that conversations with manager Gerardo Seoane played a significant role in his decision to join Gladbach. Reyna completed his transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Borussia Mönchengladbach for a reported deal worth up to $8.25 million (€7 million) last Saturday. 

The midfielder emphasized that feeling valued by a historically significant Bundesliga club provided him with confidence about the move, particularly after struggling for consistent playing time at Dortmund.

“I think No. 1, speaking to the coach gave me a really good feeling,” Reyna told ESPN. “Being wanted obviously, still a big club that has ambitions to finish high up in the Bundesliga. So I think another opportunity for me to also just play, get in the field, get rhythm, and then sort of get going again. So just a change was needed, regardless of where it was." 

He added, “Gladbach seems [like a place] where I can make that happen too. So, of course, watching him [Joe Scally] and play, week in and week out, was just nice to watch him and play, and cheer him on and support him. But I mean, it was definitely one of the reasons why I wanted to come here, was for sure playing time, obviously. I feel like it's the next time to take the next step for me.”

Reyna's transfer represents a potential career reset for a player once considered American soccer's brightest prospect just a few years ago. Since breaking through as a 17-year-old phenom at Dortmund, injuries and inconsistency have plagued his development, causing his value for both club and country to plummet.

It is still unclear whether or not Reyna will make his first appearance for the club when it faces Stuttgart on Aug. 30. The club then goes on a two-week break from matches due to the international break and will resume action on Sept. 14.