Ricardo Pepi's Injury May Affect USMNT March Plans

United States forward Ricardo Pepi has sustained a knee injury that could sideline him for up to three months, potentially impacting his availability for the USMNT's Concacaf Nations League semifinal against Panama in March. Pepi, who has been in excellent form, scoring a decisive goal in PSV Eindhoven's 3-2 Champions League victory over Liverpool, was substituted in the 76th minute due to the injury. While an ACL tear has been ruled out, further tests are being conducted to determine the exact severity. Pepi's absence is a significant concern for USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino, especially with fellow forward Folarin Balogun also injured. PSV had rejected a $25 million bid from West Ham for Pepi, indicating his rising value and potential. His form has been pivotal for both PSV and the USMNT, where he has scored multiple goals in recent international fixtures.