Pepi Out for the Season

The Striker Will Miss Time Following Surgery, Extended at PSV

Ricardo Pepi has suffered a significant setback in a breakthrough season at PSV Eindhoven, with the forward requiring meniscus surgery following a knee injury sustained in PSV's dramatic 3-2 Champions League victory over Liverpool. The injury, which occurred in the same match where Pepi scored the winning goal, will sideline him for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.

The timing is miserable as the 22-year-old had been enjoying his most prolific campaign in European football, notching 18 goals in 29 appearances across all competitions despite primarily serving as a backup to club captain Luuk de Jong. His impressive form had caught the attention of Premier League side West Ham United, who reportedly submitted a $25 million bid in January.

PSV demonstrated their faith in Pepi's potential by rejecting that offer and securing his long-term future with a contract extension through 2030 instead. The Texas native expressed his commitment to the Dutch giants despite the injury setback.

"At the time it happened, I thought the injury wasn't too bad. But the next day I knew something was wrong," Pepi explained. "This is unfortunately the risk of our profession, but I assure you that I will be back as soon as possible."

PSV head coach Peter Bosz confirmed the severity of the injury, stating: "We assume that Ricardo Pepi will be out for the rest of the season." The injury rules Pepi out of the USMNT's upcoming CONCACAF Nations League semifinal against Panama in March.

Despite the setback, Pepi remained optimistic about his future with PSV: "Thanks to the enormous amount of love and opportunities PSV gives me and the special club that PSV is, I had no doubts about extending my contract. We have already experienced many unforgettable moments together, and hopefully, many special milestones will follow."