The first goal of the year has come at a perfect moment for Reyna. The World Cup is coming up and every performance matters, sometimes more so than consistency and timing is the key. This goal is more than just a number for Reyna. It moves him to a different spot in the selection talk. His return to the score sheet after a lengthy injury lay-up and minutes shortage offer tangible proof of form. Now it’s time to see if this is enough to get him a spot on the USMNT roster.
Long Wait
Reyna’s goal comes after a 16 month drought on the scoring line at club level. It’s a big number for an attacking midfielder or winger. In his position, players are generally evaluated by goals and assists, and if he doesn’t produce for long, he’s not in the game next week.
Reyna was also source limited in this time. He has limited playing time on his last two seasons with the USMNT, compared to other attack-minded players. Christian Pulisic and Tim Weah have been regular names in the squad, and Reyna has been a regular name on the bench but left the field in short spells.
This is lack of continuity, which has impacted the rhythm. Attacking players use regular minutes to keep themselves sharp in making decisions and finishing. It is obvious that the point is: It isn’t talent that has been an obstacle for Reyna. It is been available and consistent.
Goal Impact
The importance of this goal goes beyond the scoreline. It shows readiness of match. Turning a chance under pressure is a sign of confidence coming back after a prolonged drought with no goals. Attacks are the best way to measure confidence for attacking players. After a goal, there are more shots, positioning is better and decisions are faster at the end of the third. This generates a positive feedback loop leading to an increase in output.
Timing is important in a selection point of view. The scores near the time of squad announcement have more importance than other scores. Coaches always take into account the player’s present performance. This target heralds Reyna’s return to the fray and not a side show.
Competition Spots
The attacking midfield and wings of the USMNT are very competitive. Pulisic is the main attacking threat, and others such as Weah, Brenden Aaronson and more are available in the middle and will deliver minutes when required.
On average, the majority of these are goal scorers who have been regularly involved in goals this season. That sets a high standard for selection. Reyna will have to do the same in a brief period of time.
Versatility is another one. Players with the ability to play multiple positions have greater chances of being selected. Reyna can play forward and wing, making him a very useful player if he is in good form. But one goal doesn’t guarantee a ticket. It’s a beginning, not the end.
Minutes Played
Total minutes played is one of the most difficult aspects to work on for Reyna. Several USMNT attackers have played 1500 to 2000 minutes for their clubs this season. But Reyna’s numbers are much lower.
This difference translates into fitness and tactical knowledge in the match. Coaches like players that play in competitive games consistently as they are more likely to be prepared to play at a higher level.
Reyna needs to be in the final fourth of a season with a solid amount of playing time to bolster his argument. Although this is useful, it is more important to start matches. Goal contribution is no longer the only factor of importance; it is now minutes.
Tactical Fit
USMNT’s philosophy, under Pochettino, is highly based on pressing, rapid transitions, and calculated attacking play. Reyna’s profile covers some aspects of this system but poses questions about others. In possession he is creative, close in control and is able to play between the defence. These are the attributes needed when defending against compact defenses.
The system off the ball requires high intensity pressing and discipline in the defensive phase. Other players have been more consistent in this area as they have had regular minutes and fitness levels.
If Reyna can improve his off ball play then his chances of success will be high. Tactical fit is a key consideration in close selection calls.
Short Window
This goal is set at a moments that can offer opportunity and pressure. Reyna has a few games left before the World Cup, and he’ll need to gather some momentum.
In the real world, he’ll need to play regularly over the upcoming games. This includes goals, assists and general involvement in attacking plays. One shot draws attention. Selection certainty is achieved with multiple contributions. The focus for this phase is repetition. Coaches search for trends and not individual moments.
Selection Criteria
Typically, the USMNT’s selection is based on a clear set of guidelines. The form is a key consideration. Players who are playing well near the tournament are at a disadvantage. There is also the fitness matching. Players who get more playing time are more consistent in matches of high intensity.
Final decisions are made on a tactical basis. The system should only need a few adjustments to allow players to fit the system. The balance of Reyna is in an even position. He’s back on form but needs to be as consistent as his opponents.
The American has now put himself firmly in contention for a spot in the World Cup, but not a sure one. It’s now the perfect time but the number of samples is still limited.
He’s now in the mix, but no longer in contention. He will need to be consistent in his other matches to be able to convert this into selection. Things are all the more straightforward. There’s no question about the talent. Now it’s about output, fitness and tactical input in the closing weeks.
Reyna has got to continue to make an impact on this goal regularly if he is going to be a strong candidate. Otherwise, the competition coming up on his horizon isn’t going to be that easy to clear.
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