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USMNT

·18 June 2026

Twenty-six footballers have been selected for the United States Men’s National Team squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026. To help fans get to know the players better, each one answered a set of 26 rapid-fire questions, offering a glimpse into their personalities and the paths that brought them to football’s grandest stage.

Here are 26 questions with forward Ricardo Pepi:

What have you been up to?

I just got back home from training a couple of hours ago. We have a crucial match tomorrow, so I’m focusing on preparing myself for that game.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I’m definitely a morning person. I love starting the day with a good breakfast, hopping on the bike for a few minutes to warm up, and getting ready for the day ahead.

What’s your alarm sound in the morning?

The original Apple alarm sound. I can’t really wake myself up with anything harsher than that.

How’s life in the Netherlands been treating you?

It’s been amazing. I’ve played for two different clubs in two different cities, and it’s been a great experience. Everyone here speaks English, the food is excellent, and the people are very friendly. I think it’s wonderful.

If someone visits the Netherlands for the first time, what’s something they must do?

I’d say they have to ride a bike in Amsterdam. Many people think it’s easy, but honestly, it’s one of the most challenging things to do.

What’s your favourite place you’ve travelled to for football?

I’d probably say Jamaica. It was fantastic—great weather, a bit humid, but playing near the beach made it special.

What’s one destination you really want to visit but haven’t yet?

I’d love to travel to Asia. I haven’t been there yet, and it’s definitely on my bucket list. I’m looking forward to making that trip someday.

What do you miss most about El Paso?

The culture, definitely. The people are warm, kind, and hardworking. And of course, I miss the food a lot.

What’s your favourite meal when you go back home?

My favourite meal is always whatever my mum cooks when I visit. She’s always making something delicious, so it’s always a treat.

What’s your favourite dish that she makes?

Enchiladas, without a doubt. That’s my top choice. Whenever she visits me or I go home, she always asks what I want, and I always say enchiladas—they’re my favourite.

Do you cook?

Sometimes I do, but most of the time, when my family visits, we relax and grill some steaks. We really enjoy that together.

Are you an electric or manual toothbrush person?

I grew up using a manual one, but now I’ve switched to electric and there’s no going back.

What’s something on your bucket list that you’ve already crossed off?

That’s a tricky one. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve crossed off anything major yet.

Do you have any nicknames?

El Tren. That’s my favourite nickname. Many people call me that, and it’s really stuck with me over time.

Where did that nickname come from?

It started back when I was playing in Dallas. I was young, scoring goals, and there was a bit of hype around me—so the name just caught on. Now, I love it.

If you could listen to only one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I’d probably say “All of the Lights” by Kanye. It’s a classic and it always gets me fired up before a match.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

In football terms, probably teleportation or super speed.

What’s something that always makes you smile?

I’m very close to my family, so just talking to them and knowing everyone’s doing well always makes me happy.

Can you show us your signature celebration?

Yeah, I’ve got this one.

Where did that celebration come from?

I’m a huge anime fan. It’s inspired by Naruto, my favourite character, who always does that move. That’s where it comes from.

Who’s one person who really helped you on your journey to becoming a professional footballer?

My parents—especially my dad. He was my coach when I started playing at four years old and continued until I was ten. He worked really hard with me, pushed me to my limits, and I wouldn’t be here without him.

What’s your favourite memory with the national team?

My debut, for sure. It was a World Cup qualifier, and scoring as well as assisting made it an unforgettable moment.

Is there any trophy here that means the most to you right now?

Probably the most recent one—we’re champions of the Netherlands again, for the third consecutive time. There’s no better feeling.

When this tournament is done, what do you hope people say about your performance and attitude?

I just hope fans enjoy my football and see that I’m fully committed to this team and this country. I want to give my best for myself, my family, and the people who support us.