SOCCER
USMNT: Ricardo Pepi is a big admirer of Raúl Jiménez
The FC Dallas striker is going to experience for the first time the rivalry between Mexico and the USMNT and he describes it as ‘a special feeling.’
Ricardo Pepi is one of the most promising young players in the United States men’s national team and several teams in Europe are keen on signing him during the winter transfer window. The 18-year-old will play with the USMNT during the international break in November and he could experience the rivalry between the United States and Mexico for the first time.
“I remember when I was 10, 11 years old, I remember just watching Mexico vs. the US every time they’d play. It was a special feeling,” Pepi said on Tuesday. “Having my family beside me … it was just rooting for Mexico back then. And now I’m representing the US.
“I feel like I’m going to get some goosebumps for sure,” he continued. “It’s going to be that feeling where I’m going to be very motivated for the game and I’m going to be prepared for it.”
Ricardo Pepi on Raúl Jiménez
“There are a lot of players in the Mexican national team that I saw growing up and admiring, like Raúl Jiménez. He has great technique and natural talent, but I also like to learn from strikers like [Erling] Haaland and Robert Lewandowski,” said Pepi.
The United States men's national team has played six matches in the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers and they are in second place. The USMNT has a record of three wins, two draws and one loss for a total of 11 points, three behind first place Mexico.