Ricardo Pepi’s National Team Comeback: A Big Statement

After being left off the World Cup roster last November and a difficult loan spell at Groningen, Ricardo Pepi’s career has been a roller-coaster ride. However, the United States men’s national team striker scored three goals in a week including the game winner in a 1-0 victory against El Salvador, proving that he’s back and ready to compete at the highest level.

Pepi’s first call-up back to the national team was promising, especially considering he scored 10 goals in all competitions while on loan. He made an immediate impact, latching onto Weston McKennie’s inch-perfect through ball, shaking off defender Roberto Dominguez, and delivering a delicate chip over the keeper Mario Gonzalez to secure the win.

While Pepi’s struggles at Groningen had him fighting relegation, he proved invaluable to the U.S. team. “We really value him. We really love him as a person, as a character. We believe in him,” expressed interim manager Anthony Hudson.

Pepi, who scored twice against Grenada in a 7-1 victory, credits his success to his instincts. “I think it’s just something that, it’s just instincts that kick in,” he said. “And then, as a striker, that’s what you should do.”

As the current club season ends, it remains uncertain where Pepi’s future will lead. With his loan about to expire, he is set to return to Augsburg, but he has not heard from the club lately. However, Pepi is laser-focused on scoring as many goals as he can in the remainder of the season, with the summer ahead shrouded in mystery.

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