FC Dallas forward Ricardo Pepi's stock keeps soaring, and now he's heading to the 2021 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target on August 25.
The 18-year-old homegrown recently made the MLS All-Star Team, a hand-selected choice by coach Bob Bradley. The LAFC boss had some input on the 28-player roster that's due to face the Liga MX All-Stars at Banc of California Stadium, and he's clearly been impressed by the youngster.
Pepi, who has eight goals and one assist in 17 games (12 starts) this year, discussed the opportunity on this week's episode of The Call Up.
"It means a lot, just being able to be picked by a coach," Pepi said. "He doesn't even know me basically, so it just feels special. But being able to represent the MLS in general is a special one."
Pepi, a Mexican-American dual-national who's eligible to represent either Concacaf rival, is eager to meet stars from both leagues. But the chance to play alongside LAFC forward Carlos Vela and LA Galaxy forward Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez is particularly exciting for the Texas native.
Vela and Chicharito have enjoyed legendary careers with Mexico's national team, of course, and they'll be two central figures later this month. Players, just like fans and media members alike, are eager to see how they'll perform.
"There's a lot of special players, but I feel like the person I want to meet the most is either Chicharito or Carlos Vela, just because they're Mexican," Pepi said. "They're Mexican, so it comes from there."
For more from Pepi and updates around the league, listen to the latest episode of The Call Up.
