United States name Gio Reyna in 2026 World Cup squad as Diego Luna dropped
Mauricio Pochettino has included Gio Reyna in the United States squad for the 2026 World Cup, while midfielder Diego Luna is among the notable absentees.
The national team head coach will officially unveil his 26-player roster for the co-hosted tournament at a scheduled event in New York City on Tuesday.
Reyna secures his place despite enduring a challenging club season in the German Bundesliga.
The attacking playmaker has frequently been utilised as a substitute for Borussia Monchengladbach and has not completed a full 90-minute league match in four years.
Notable omissions and surprise inclusions
Luna represents a surprising exclusion after establishing himself as a regular feature under the current management.
The Real Salt Lake midfielder had earned 18 appearances since his 2024 debut, contributing four goals and four assists to the national setup.
His uncapped club team-mate Zavier Gozo has also failed to make the final cut, alongside Lyon midfielder Tanner Tessmann.
Tessmann previously featured in both of the nation’s most recent friendly matches against Belgium and Portugal in March.
Conversely, Club America winger Alejandro Zendejas has earned a place in the squad, rewarding his impressive domestic form in Mexico.
Overcoming past controversies and injury doubts
Reyna’s selection marks a significant turnaround following a highly publicised dispute with the previous coaching staff at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
The former Borussia Dortmund talent was nearly sent home by former manager Gregg Berhalter over training standards, sparking an investigation that briefly threatened his international future.
Berhalter’s son, Sebastian, has been selected for the current squad following a strong campaign with MLS Cup finalists Vancouver Whitecaps.
In defence, Crystal Palace centre-back Chris Richards has been named in the provisional group despite suffering a recent ankle ligament tear.
Sources indicate the Premier League defender’s readiness for the upcoming tournament is not in doubt.
Goalkeeping battles and upcoming deadlines
New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese and Chicago Fire stopper Chris Brady have both been named among the goalkeeping options.
Freese is anticipated to challenge New England Revolution veteran Matt Turner for the starting position between the posts.
The squad also features European-based duo Brenden Aaronson of Leeds United and Toulouse defender Mark McKenzie.
The final list of players must be officially submitted to world governing body Fifa by 1 June.
The host nation will commence their tournament campaign against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on 12 June.