Ricardo Pepi made his official determination to be a part of the US males’s nationwide workforce after heavy hypothesis that the FC Dallas participant can be a part of Mexico’s roster for the World Cup qualifiers this autumn.
The ahead took to Twitter to clarify his selection and defined how his Mexican-American background affected his thought course of in latest months.
“I grew up in a unique part of the United States. Living in El Paso and having my family in Ciudad Juarez meant that I would cross the border every week to visit friends and family. I have always grown up in my Mexican heritage. I love everything about my culture, my people, my food and I am very proud to be Mexican-American “, he wrote.
“It’s something that will never be taken away from me, no matter what national team I play for.”
After acknowledging his Mexican background, Pepi explained that the United States shaped him and his football career.
“At the same time, I was born and raised in the United States. This country has given my family a home and endless opportunities to achieve my dreams. It has supported me, it has lifted me and it has shown me that when you work hard you will be rewarded. “I am very proud to be called to help USMNT qualify for the 2022 World Cup. That means the world to me,” said Pepi. “What better way to help them by hopefully one day lifting a World Cup? I feel warmly welcomed and I can not wait to show that I deserve to be here.”
Outside the country, he credited USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter and his constant contact as the reason for his decision.
“I talked to Gregg, not just last month. He kept following me up and called me twice after that. He showed me that I’m special and I want to show him that I’m ready for this moment. ”
pic.twitter.com/zbavRvXBkm
– Ricardo Pepi (@ Ricardo_Pepi9) August 26, 2021
The FC Dallas talent can still choose to switch to Mexico under the new FIFA rule which exempts players from a binding contract if a player competes in three matches or less.
Despite the brand new open strategies, Pepi made positive to state that his determination is last.
“I mentioned that once I made this determination, it might be with my coronary heart,” Pepi stated. “It’s completed with my coronary heart. If I placed on the jersey, I’m combating for it till I can now not struggle. So sure, I’m able to play.”
