PSV Eindhoven’s Injury Update on Ricardo Pepi
PSV Eindhoven has announced that Ricardo Pepi, the American forward, will be sidelined for their upcoming Champions League fixture against Bayer Leverkusen. The decision follows an injury sustained during their recent 2-1 victory over Excelsior, where Pepi had to leave the field slightly more than 30 minutes into the match.
Medical Evaluation and Rehabilitation
According to a statement from the club, medical evaluations indicated that Pepi is dealing with a minor strain in his upper leg. He is expected to focus on individual rehabilitation in the following days before rejoining full team practices. Pepi has only just returned to form this season, having made four starts after recovering from a knee injury he incurred during a Champions League match against Liverpool back in January.
Coach’s Comments
Following the match against Excelsior, Coach Peter Bosz expressed caution regarding Pepi’s condition, noting:
“He felt something but believed he could continue. I prefer not to take unnecessary risks with players expressing even slight discomfort. Further assessments will help clarify the situation.”
Future Prospects
The 22-year-old striker was previously hoping to earn a spot on the United States national team for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. His earlier injury prevented him from participating in this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup and September fixtures against South Korea and Japan. Currently, it remains uncertain if Pepi will be fit for the challenge against PEC Zwolle this Saturday.
Despite the setbacks, the former FC Dallas talent has a promising goal-scoring record of 13 goals in 33 appearances for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), positioning him for potential inclusion in coach Mauricio Pochettino’s World Cup plans in less than a year’s time.
