Donovan Worried by Ricardo Pepi’s Limited USMNT Minutes

Ricardo Pepi’s USMNT minutes have become a source of concern for American soccer legend Landon Donovan, who recently voiced his disappointment over Pepi’s restricted playing time during the November 2025 international window. As the US Men’s National Team continues to sharpen its squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, questions about Pepi’s standing in the striker hierarchy have come to the forefront.

Ricardo Pepi’s USMNT Minutes Under Scrutiny

Donovan, a longtime figure in American soccer, expressed his concerns after Pepi was left out entirely during the USMNT’s impressive win over Uruguay. Despite a commanding performance and a comfortable lead—especially after Uruguay was reduced to 10 men—head coach Mauricio Pochettino opted not to bring Pepi onto the pitch. “This is the kind of match every striker on the bench is eager to join, particularly with chances coming thick and fast,” Donovan said on his Unfiltered Soccer podcast. “You’re watching and thinking, ‘Get me on the field!’ But even then, Pepi didn’t get a look.”

Donovan also recalled a previous match in which Pepi missed a significant scoring opportunity, suggesting that moment may have contributed to the coach’s current selection choices. “He had a chance the other night that he fluffed and should have scored,” Donovan noted.

Pepi Falls Down the USMNT Striker Pecking Order

According to Donovan’s assessment, Pepi now finds himself third in the USMNT striker depth chart, trailing Folarin Balogun and Haji Wright. “It’s pretty clear right now; it goes Balogun, then Haji Wright, and Pepi is third. That’s how the coach seems to see it,” Donovan explained. This marks a significant shift for Pepi, who had previously been a first-choice option in the attack.

Balogun and Wright Make Their Case

Folarin Balogun, now with AS Monaco, has firmly established himself as the leading striker for the USMNT, netting three goals in his last five caps. Haji Wright’s recent surge—scoring twice in his last two appearances—has further complicated the forward landscape. In contrast, Pepi has struggled to maintain form and fitness, making it difficult to reclaim his spot.

The Road Ahead for Ricardo Pepi’s USMNT Future

With just one international window left before World Cup qualifying intensifies, the competition for a place in the USMNT’s attack is fierce. Each player’s performance will be closely monitored by Pochettino and his coaching staff as they finalize their World Cup plans.

For Pepi, the next few months are crucial. The PSV Eindhoven striker must demonstrate both sharpness in front of goal and consistency at club level if he is to challenge Balogun and Wright for more USMNT minutes. The pressure is on, and his response in upcoming matches could shape his international future.

Expert Opinion: Can Pepi Bounce Back?

Ricardo Pepi’s USMNT minutes—or lack thereof—reflect the high level of competition and the fine margins at the top. While his recent struggles may have pushed him down the pecking order, Pepi is still young and has the talent to turn things around. Consistent club performances and seizing any opportunities with the national team will be key. For American fans, seeing Pepi’s resurgence would provide much-needed depth as the team eyes a deep run in 2026.

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