Gio Reyna shows Dortmund he’s ready for more playing time next season
Gio Reyna’s outstanding performance at Leipzig showed Borussia Dortmund officials that he’s ready for significant playing time next season.
Gio Reyna had to wait a long time to get his first Bundesliga start, but it’s fair to say he impressed Borussia Dortmund officials with his performance. Notching a key assist at RB Leipzig sent an emphatic message to higher-ups at the German club that the American midfielder is ready for a big role next season.
Dortmund only managed to scrape by Leipzig by a final score of 1-0, but it was enough to secure their spot as Bundesliga runner-ups. That also ensures the club will participate in Champions League qualification next season.
Reyna’s sparkling assist for Erling Haaland’s decisive goal was a high point of Dortmund’s victory. The counter-attacking goal began with Mats Hummels dribbling out of traffic before moving the ball forward to his attackers. Reyna received a clever pass into the box and served up an easy goal for Haaland with a deft one-touch pass.
While Reyna’s assist was the high point of his performance, it wasn’t the only quality contribution he made for Dortmund in the match. His work rate really helped the club seize hold of possession in the first half. At 17-years-old Reyna is still waiting for his body to develop, but his willingness to fight for 50/50 challenges in the middle of the pitch bodes well for his future.
The question Dortmund now face with Reyna is just how much they’re willing to count on him next season. Part of those plans will hinge on the club’s ability to keep hold of attacking stars like Haaland and Jadon Sancho next season. If Dortmund are forced to sell either player it will open up significant playing time for an attacking player like Reyna.
Ultimately, the best option for Reyna next season is to assume a super substitute role for the club. His versatility will allow him to serve as the understudy for several positions in Dortmund’s attack. He has the ability to make an impact off the substitute’s bench in the central midfield or playing out wide in the front-three. If Reyna can become the club’s top substitute option at multiple positions next year he should be in line to really accelerate his personal development.
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Gio Reyna is an important part of the future for both his club and country. His late-season work for Dortmund has him in position to be a key part of the Bundesliga club’s attack in 2020-21.