United States fans may have finally learned why Giovanni Reyna barely featured at the Qatar World Cup.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder was a late substitute in most games for the USMNT at the World Cup, where they lost to the Netherlands in the round of 16 stage.
Reyna, who was touted as a starter pre-tournament, had attitude problems, as referenced by The Athletic, coach Gregg Berhalter, and eventually the player himself.
The source stated that Reyna was not putting in the proper effort in training, while he was throwing around his shin pads when he did not come on against Wales, and created other issues behind the scenes.
According to the coach Berhalter, there was even a team vote to send him home, with the team voting to keep him 13-12.
“I hoped not to comment on matters at the World Cup. It is my belief that things that happen in a team setting ought to remain private,” Reyna said on Instagram.
“That being said, statements have been made that reflect on my professionalism and character, so I feel the need to make a brief statement. Just before the World Cup, Coach Berhalter told me that my role at the tournament would be very limited. I was devastated.
“I am someone who plays with pride and passion. Soccer is my life, and I believe in my abilities. I fully expected and desperately wanted to contribute to the play of a talented group as we tried to make a statement at the World Cup.
“I am also a very emotional person, and I fully acknowledge that I let my emotions get the best of me and affect my training and behavior for a few days after learning about my limited role. I apologized to my teammates and coach for this, and I was told I was forgiven. Thereafter, I shook off my disappointment and gave everything I had on and off the field.
“I am disappointed that there is continuing coverage of this matter (as well as some highly fictionalized versions of events) and extremely surprised that anyone on the U.S. men’s team staff would contribute to it. Coach Berhalter has always said that issues that arise with the team will stay “in house” so we can focus on team unity and progress.
“I love my team, I love representing my country, and I am focusing now only on improving and growing as a soccer player and a person. I hope that going forward each person involved in U.S. Soccer focuses only on what is in the best interest of the men’s national team so we can enjoy great success at the World Cup in 2026.”
