Ream impressed by Reyna´s Stars and Stripes return

United States defender Tim Ream says Giovanni Reyna is “more focused” than ever during his return to the national team.

Reyna received his first call-up in seven months after struggling with form and fitness, but is set to play a role in the Stars and Stripes’ friendly against Paraguay on Saturday.

The 23-year-old has had a turbulent few years with the national team, after a well-documented dispute between father Claudio and former coach Gregg Berhalter following the 2022 World Cup.

Mauricio Pochettino has named both Reyna and Berhalter’s son Sebastian in the current squad, as they prepare to host the World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico next year.

Ream insisted there is no tension within the squad due to Reyna and Berhalter’s inclusions, with both players looking to cement their places in the side.

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“I feel like he’s [Reyna] more in-tune and more focused on the field than I’ve seen in the past, which is a great thing,” the defender said.

“Whether it was injury or other things that were going on, I think his focus is so much greater now. What happened, happened. We’ve all moved on from it, and they have as well, and I think that’s a good thing.

“Everyone’s trying to make this team. Everybody’s trying to be a part of a home World Cup, it’s good to see that their focus is here and now. Hopefully, both of those guys can impress over the next couple of months.”

Former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, whose first goal for the country was assisted by Reyna, was also called up to the squad.

Balogun is excited to play alongside Reyna again as they look to reignite their partnership on the pitch.

“I’m looking forward to playing with Gio,” the forward added. “I think me and him have a great connection, and as a striker, you want someone like him providing creativity behind you.

“As he has shown in training already, [Reyna can] make a good impact and help us in both games.”