Gio Reyna endured a difficult start to his Borussia Monchengladbach career Sunday afternoon, playing 75 minutes but ending up on the wrong end of a 4-0 loss to Werder Bremen. The USMNT midfielder played in a familiar No. 10 role for Gladbach, but was unable to affect the result as his side were outplayed at home. Still, Reyna showed some promise.
Reyna makes first Monchengladbach start
The attacking midfielder was in the XI from the jump in a handily loss at the hands of a more expansive Bremen team. Although he impressed in moments, Reyna's side had few clear chances, and he was a little loose as he looks to regain form following three seasons of inconsistent football.
Monchengladbach are now winless to start the campaign.
AdvertisementUSMNT midfielder shows promise
Still, Reyna showed flashes of his old self. He completed a handful of dribbles, and was clever in tight areas – a hallmark of his game when he broke through at Borussia Dortmund.
Reyna also put a shot on target, and had the second most touches in the opponent's box of any player. Monchengladbach managed three shots on frame all contest.
Monchengladbach continue to struggle
The home side, though, turned in another tepid display. They were outplayed from the start, and conceded goals in the 15th and 26th minutes. And despite Reyna's efforts, never looked like getting back in it.
A brighter start in the second half offered promise – marked by a clearance off the line from a tidy move started by Reyna. But they conceded in the 74th and 81st minutes to round off a resounding home defeat. They are yet to find the net this season through three games.
GettyReyna will have further chances
The schedule will only get tougher. Monchengladbach travel to the revamped Bayer Leverkusen next Sunday before hosting a Frankfurt side in fine form to start the season. Reyna, if he remains fit, figures to be in the mix.