ESPN’s Derek Rae Discusses Americans in the Bundesliga Ahead of 2025-26 Season
As the 2025-26 Bundesliga season approaches, ESPN’s lead commentator, Derek Rae, sheds light on key storylines for Americans playing in Germany. One of the major talking points is the uncertain future of 22-year-old U.S. international, Gio Reyna, at Borussia Dortmund.
The Rise and Fall of Gio Reyna
Rae expresses uncertainty about Reyna’s career trajectory, stating, “There’s more to come from him, but just how good he is, how good he’s going to be? I think nobody really knows.” Once hailed as a game-changing player ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Reyna’s journey has been marred by injuries, hindering his progress and potentially impacting his chances of making the USMNT squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Despite being considered one-dimensional, Rae acknowledges Reyna’s potential but notes that he is still a work in progress. The upcoming season could be pivotal in determining his future in German football.
Emerging Talents
Aside from Reyna, other American players in Germany are also making waves. Teenager Cole Campbell, known for his speed, made his breakthrough with Borussia Dortmund last season but could be on the move this summer. Wingers Kevin Paredes and Paxten Aaronson, who impressed at the 2024 Olympics, are back in preseason training with German clubs, aiming for a successful 2025-26 season.
Paredes, who missed most of last season due to injury, faces a crucial year in his professional career, while Rae remains optimistic about Aaronson’s chances of securing a spot in Eintracht Frankfurt’s squad. The upcoming season will be defining for these young American talents as they strive to make their mark in the Bundesliga.
Insights from Derek Rae
As ESPN’s lead Bundesliga commentator, Rae brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the discussion of American players in Germany. Known for his work covering La Liga and as the voice of the EAFC video game, Rae offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing these emerging talents.
The latest edition of Mic’d Up provides a platform for Rae to share his perspective on the state of soccer in the U.S. and abroad, offering fans a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the game and the potential of American players in the Bundesliga.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Gio Reyna, Cole Campbell, Kevin Paredes, and Paxten Aaronson as they navigate the competitive landscape of German football, striving to fulfill their potential and leave a lasting impact on the sport.
