'He's one-dimensional' - ESPN's Derek Rae on Gio Reyna's flawed fit at Dortmund, says of 22-year-old USMNT midfielder, 'how good is he going to be, nobody really knows'

ESPN's lead Bundesliga commentator Derek Rae discussed key storylines for American players in Germany ahead of the 2025-26 season, expressing significant uncertainty about Gio Reyna's future. Rae noted Reyna's time at Borussia Dortmund is effectively over, making his next move crucial for a player once seen as the next big American star. He highlighted Reyna's persistent injury problems as a major factor holding him back, preventing him from fulfilling the potential he showed before the 2022 World Cup. Rae also described Reyna as currently "one-dimensional" and still a "work in progress," questioning his ability to reach the top tier of Bundesliga creative midfielders. Reyna's position on the USMNT for the 2026 World Cup is now uncertain.

Rae also addressed other Americans in Germany. Teenager Cole Campbell, who broke into Dortmund's first team last season, could potentially leave the club alongside Reyna this summer. While Rae identified Campbell as "one of the fastest players in the Bundesliga," he stated "only time will tell" regarding his ultimate potential. Meanwhile, wingers Kevin Paredes (Wolfsburg) and Paxten Aaronson (Eintracht Frankfurt), both returning to preseason training after starring for the U23 USMNT at the 2024 Olympics, are fighting for spots. Paredes missed nearly all of last season injured, and Rae called the upcoming season the biggest of his career. Aaronson is returning from a loan spell at FC Utrecht, and Rae remains optimistic about his chances of breaking into the Frankfurt squad.

Rae shared these insights in the latest edition of GOAL US's "Mic'd Up" feature, which gathers perspectives from broadcasters and analysts on soccer. The interview was lightly edited for brevity and clarity.