Gio Reyna understands the experiences of his younger USA teammates. Like Cavan Sullivan and Neil Pierre, Reyna was once a promising teen attending his first national team camp. This comes as Albert and Mehmeti prepare for four upcoming home friendlies against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada—marking the United States’ first matches following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Now at 23, Reyna has played for clubs in Germany, England, and France, and is a two-time World Cup participant, also expecting his first child. He shared with reporters, “I’m still young and have much to prove to myself and to others,” during a press conference at U.S. Soccer’s training center near Atlanta.
Reyna is not just a player but also a seasoned international who, alongside the 12 other World Cup veterans on this relatively inexperienced 28-player roster, is now tasked with mentoring the next wave of American soccer talent. This marks a significant shift for many long-term members of the U.S. squad.
Consider Sebastian Berhalter, who was still trying to secure his place in the World Cup lineup just a year ago. After making a strong impression during the tournament, he now finds himself as one of the more experienced members at age 25, in a locker room where the average age is under 23—over four years younger than the last World Cup squad.
“I’ve only been part of the team for a year, which is crazy, but it’s good,” Berhalter remarked about the increased leadership role expected of veterans. “For us, it’s about individual performance and maintaining high standards while also showing the younger players what it means to compete at the highest level.”
As the training camp continues, which will wrap up after the Canada match on October 6 in St. Paul, Minnesota, coach Mauricio Pochettino has only led two sessions so far, with some key players still yet to arrive. Despite this, the younger players are making a strong impression on their more seasoned teammates.
“When I see these young players, they are very professional and mature for their age,” noted Miles Robinson. “They are eager to learn and grow, which is essential for a young player.”
With notable absentees like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, this camp offers the 16-year-old Sullivan and 18-year-old Pierre a chance for significant playing time. Others, including six additional teenagers called up, may also see action, especially as Pochettino seems set on fielding strong lineups in early October against Concacaf rivals Canada and Mexico—teams he has yet to defeat.
While expressing his initial nerves about playing alongside established players, Pierre stated, “We’re all here to compete.” He mentioned how welcoming the veterans have been, making it clear that mistakes are a natural part of growth.
“My goal is to keep being part of the men’s national team and give my best,” Pierre added.
Creating a bond that has characterized the best U.S. teams in history is a focus off the field as well. “Everyone says, ‘Welcome to the family,’” Pierre noted about his fellow players, who have helped ease his transition.
### Fan Take:
This news is significant for soccer enthusiasts as it illustrates the evolving landscape of the U.S. Men’s National Team, showcasing a blend of emerging youth and seasoned experience. The successful integration of these young talents could herald a promising era for American soccer, particularly leading into crucial competitions.
Source: www.foxsports.com
