ESPN FC Futbol Americas: Pepi Deal Collapses, Raul 12/12 & McKennie Stays Hot
Feb 3, 2026
Rodrigo Faez, La Liga and Atlético insider, breaks down transfers and CONCACAF movements. He explains Obed Vargas to Atlético and Álvaro Fidalgo’s move to Real Betis. The conversation also covers Ricardo Pepi’s failed Fulham move, Raúl Jiménez’s perfect penalty run, and Weston McKennie’s hot streak at Juventus.
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PSV Betting On Pepi's World Cup Upside
- PSV's refusal to sell Ricardo Pepi for ~$43M looks driven by hope his World Cup could raise his value further.
- Alejandro Moreno and Herculez Gomez call it a missed cashing-in opportunity given Pepi's limited minutes and injury.
Pepi's Part-Time Role At PSV
- Herculez notes Pepi has played only about 35% of PSV minutes, highlighting limited usage.
- He frames Pepi as a part-time player who hasn't proven to be the club's main striker.
Playing Time, Not Club, Hurts Pepi
- Staying at PSV won't hurt Pepi because his real problem is lack of playing time, not league choice.
- Alejandro Moreno argues Pepi's national-team role is as a bench goal-scorer unless he secures consistent minutes and goals.