Pepi’s USMNT Minutes Raise Concerns for Donovan

Ricardo Pepi’s USMNT Role Under Scrutiny After November Camp

Ricardo Pepi’s USMNT minutes have become a major talking point following the November 2025 international window, with American legend Landon Donovan openly questioning the striker’s place in Mauricio Pochettino’s plans. Donovan’s concerns center on Pepi’s limited involvement, especially his total absence during the United States’ impressive win over Uruguay—a match many saw as the perfect opportunity for the young forward to shine.

Donovan Questions Pepi’s Dropping Down the USMNT Depth Chart

On his Unfiltered Soccer podcast, Landon Donovan didn’t mince words about Ricardo Pepi’s position within the USMNT setup. “This is a game where you can’t wait to get on the field if you’re watching from the bench,” Donovan remarked, referencing Uruguay’s red card and the USMNT’s commanding lead. Yet, despite the favorable conditions, Pochettino chose to leave the PSV striker on the sidelines. Donovan noted, “He had a chance the other night that he fluffed and should have scored,” suggesting that missed opportunities and recent form may have contributed to Pepi’s diminished status.

Current Striker Hierarchy: Balogun and Wright Lead the Way

Donovan’s analysis places Folarin Balogun at the top of the USMNT forward pecking order, closely followed by Haji Wright, with Ricardo Pepi now relegated to a third-choice role. Both Balogun and Wright have been in impressive form, with Balogun scoring three goals in his last five caps and Wright netting twice in his last two appearances. Pepi, in contrast, has struggled to find consistency and appears to be lacking match sharpness at a crucial time.

Ricardo Pepi’s USMNT Future Ahead of World Cup Qualifying

With the 2026 World Cup looming and only one international window remaining before qualifiers intensify, the battle for the USMNT’s striker positions has never been fiercer. The emergence of Balogun and Wright, combined with Pepi’s difficulties in converting chances, means the pressure is on for Pepi to prove his worth. Donovan emphasized that the depth chart isn’t set in stone, hinting that strong club performances could help Pepi reclaim a more prominent role. However, every missed opportunity on the international stage makes the path back more challenging.

What This Means for Pepi and the USMNT Attack

For Pepi, the message is clear: the next few months are critical. With World Cup qualifying fast approaching, only the most in-form strikers will earn valuable minutes. If Pepi can regain confidence and scoring touch with PSV, he could still make a case for inclusion. For now, it’s Balogun and Wright who have seized their chances—leaving Pepi on the outside looking in.

Opinion: Time Running Out for Pepi to Make His Mark

In my view, Donovan’s concerns are entirely justified. Pepi’s trajectory, once so promising, has hit a concerning plateau. The USMNT needs strikers in peak form with the World Cup on the horizon, and Pepi must rise to the challenge or risk being left behind. The coming months will define his international future—and perhaps the competitiveness of the USMNT attack itself.

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