Ricardo Pepi Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 28, 2025
Ricardo Pepi has emerged as a symbol of the future of American soccer. At just 22 years old, the dynamic U.S. striker has transformed from a record-breaking teen sensation into a key figure in Major League Soccer, the U.S. Men’s National Team, and European football.
With his powerful physique, clinical finishing, and growing international presence, Pepi’s journey—from El Paso to the global stage—is a defining narrative of American football’s evolving identity.
Then: The Teen Phenom from El Paso (2019–2021)
1. Humble Beginnings in Texas
Born on January 9, 2003, in El Paso, Texas, to Mexican-American parents, Ricardo Pepi grew up immersed in football culture along the U.S.-Mexico border. He began playing youth soccer with Real SoCal El Paso and quickly stood out for his physical strength, aerial ability, and natural goal-scoring instinct—traits rare for his age.
Despite limited exposure in a city without a top-tier academy, Pepi’s talent caught the eye of FC Dallas’ youth scouts, but he ultimately joined North Texas SC, the USL League One affiliate of FC Dallas.
2. MLS Breakthrough with FC Dallas (2020–2021)
In August 2020, at just 17 years old, Pepi made his professional debut for FC Dallas in Major League Soccer. His impact was immediate:
- Scored his first MLS goal at 17
- Became a regular starter by 2021
- Tallied 13 goals in 27 appearances during the 2021 season
His performances earned him the 2021 MLS Young Player of the Year award and made him the youngest player in MLS history to score a hat-trick—a feat he achieved against the San Jose Earthquakes.
3. U.S. National Team Debut – A Star is Born
Pepi’s club success led to a shock senior debut for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) in September 2021. He didn’t just make the squad—he lit it up:
- Scored in his first three international appearances
- Became the fastest U.S. player to score four international goals (in four games)
- Netted crucial goals in 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, including a brace against Honduras
By the end of 2021, Pepi was not just a prospect—he was a national sensation.
Related: Jérémy Doku Then and Now
The Transition: European Challenges and Growth (2022–2024)
1. Move to Augsburg – The European Leap
In August 2022, Pepi made a $12 million transfer to FC Augsburg in Germany’s Bundesliga—the largest transfer fee ever for an MLS-developed homegrown player at the time.
The move was a gamble. The Bundesliga’s physicality and tactical demands tested the young striker. While he showed flashes of brilliance—scoring in his debut match and delivering key goals—playing time was inconsistent under multiple managerial changes.
Despite limited starts, Pepi remained professional, adapting to life in Europe and improving his link-up play, defensive work rate, and tactical discipline.
2. Loan to Groningen and PSV Eindhoven – Finding His Form
To gain consistent minutes, Pepi was loaned to FC Groningen in the Dutch Eredivisie in 2023. Though the club struggled and was relegated, Pepi scored 9 goals in 28 appearances, proving he could compete in European leagues.
In January 2024, a pivotal move came: Pepi joined PSV Eindhoven on loan with an option to buy. Under manager Peter Bosz, he thrived in a high-pressing, attacking system:
- Scored 14 goals in 18 Eredivisie matches
- Excelled in big games, including goals against Ajax and Feyenoord
- Formed a lethal partnership with Cody Gakpo and Guus Til
His performances reignited interest from top European clubs and reminded the football world of his potential.
Related: Evan Ferguson Then and Now
Now: The 2025 Renaissance – A Confident, Complete Striker (2025)
1. Permanent Move to PSV Eindhoven
In June 2024, PSV Eindhoven exercised their option to sign Pepi permanently for a reported €15 million—a testament to his growth and impact. By early 2025, he is a first-team regular and fan favorite at Philips Stadion.
Now in his prime, Pepi has evolved into a modern center-forward:
- Physical dominance – uses his strength (6’1”, 185 lbs) to hold up play
- Clinical finishing – excels with both feet and his head
- Improved off-the-ball movement – smarter positioning and runs
- Link-up play – more involved in build-up and assists
He’s not just a finisher—he’s a complete number 9.
2. Key Player for the U.S. Men’s National Team
Entering the 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle, Pepi is now a central figure in the USMNT under manager Gregg Berhalter. With Christian Pulisic aging and younger talents emerging, Pepi has embraced the role of primary striker.
In 2024–2025, he has:
- Scored 12 goals in 18 international appearances
- Led the line in CONCACAF Nations League and World Cup qualifiers
- Become the emotional leader of a young, ambitious squad
His goal against Mexico in the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League Final—a towering header in stoppage time—cemented his status as a clutch performer and national hero.
3. Record-Breaking Achievements (As of 2025)
By the start of 2025, Pepi’s resume includes:
- MLS Young Player of the Year (2021)
- Top American scorer in Europe (2024–25)
- PSV Eindhoven Player of the Month (multiple times)
- Over 50 professional goals across MLS, Bundesliga, and Eredivisie
- 28 caps and 18 goals for the U.S. Men’s National Team
He is widely regarded as America’s most promising striker since Jozy Altidore—and with better development, potentially even more impactful.
4. Cultural Impact and Representation
Pepi proudly represents his Mexican-American heritage, often speaking about the importance of bicultural identity in American soccer. He’s a role model for:
- Latino youth in the U.S.
- Players from smaller markets without elite academies
- Dual-national athletes navigating international allegiance
He’s also a rising figure in marketing, partnering with brands like Nike, Gatorade, and EA Sports, and was featured on the cover of FIFA 25 in the U.S. edition.
Related: Dominik Szoboszlai Then and Now
Personal Life and Character
Known for his humility, work ethic, and maturity, Pepi remains grounded despite his fame. He frequently returns to El Paso, where a mural of him now stands in downtown, and supports local youth programs.
He is in a long-term relationship with Tatianna, a Mexican-American fitness influencer, and is active on social media—where he has over 3 million followers across platforms.
Off the pitch, he’s known for his love of music, fashion, and family values.
Related: Giovanni Reyna Then and Now
Cultural Impact and Legacy (In 2025)
Ricardo Pepi symbolizes a new era in American football:
- Homegrown talent thriving in Europe
- A striker with both power and precision
- A bridge between U.S. and Latin American football cultures
He’s part of a new generation—alongside players like Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna, and Yunus Musah—who are proving that Americans can not only compete but lead in global football.
Moreover, his journey from MLS to a top European club serves as a blueprint for future American forwards.
Conclusion: Ricardo Pepi – Then and Now (In 2025)
- Then: A 17-year-old from El Paso, scoring goals in MLS and making headlines with a dream start for the USMNT.
- Now: A 22-year-old international star, starting for PSV Eindhoven, leading the U.S. attack, and poised for a 2026 World Cup breakout.
Ricardo Pepi’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and belief. He faced setbacks in Europe, but instead of fading, he fought back—stronger, smarter, and more determined.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches—co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico—Pepi stands ready to carry the hopes of a nation on his shoulders.
And if 2025 is any indication?
The best is yet to come.
🔥 “I came from a border town with no stadium. Now I play in front of 30,000 fans. But I still play for El Paso.” – Ricardo Pepi (2025)
Related: Moussa Diaby Then and Now