Damion Downs Replaced Ricardo Pepi on USMNT Roster
Ricardo Pepi withdrew from the U.S. men’s national team training camp after sustaining an injury during a club match.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Soccer
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Damion Downs has been added to the U.S. men’s national team roster following the withdrawal of forward Ricardo Pepi. Pepi left his PSV match against FC Twente just 10 minutes after kickoff due to an injury.
Why it matters
The roster change forces a tactical adjustment for the U.S. squad as they prepare for a series of four upcoming friendlies. Pepi’s departure removes a key offensive option just days before the team begins its training camp.
Damion Downs is 22 years old and has earned six caps for the USMNT since his first senior call-up in 2025. Pepi played only 10 minutes in the 3-2 loss to FC Twente before being sidelined.
The players
Damion Downs
He is a 22-year-old forward who currently competes for St. Louis CITY SC on loan.
Ricardo Pepi
He is a professional soccer player who plays as a forward for the Dutch club PSV.
U.S. Soccer
This is the official governing body for the sport of soccer in the United States.
The details
U.S. Soccer announced the roster update on Sunday after Pepi was forced to exit his match in the Netherlands. Downs, who currently plays for St. Louis CITY SC on loan, will join the group as they head into a busy period of four friendly matches.
Timeline
2025: Damion Downs earned his first senior USMNT call up.
September 20, 2026: Ricardo Pepi was injured and Damion Downs was added to the roster.
September 26, 2026: The first of four USMNT friendlies is scheduled to begin.
Season Trajectory
This roster move highlights the volatility of international call-ups during the intense match schedule of the USMNT international friendly calendar. The addition of Downs impacts the team's rotation depth and attacking options as they integrate new personnel into the squad.
Downs will now compete for minutes in the attacking rotation during the upcoming four-game friendly window. Fantasy players and fans should note that his inclusion represents a significant opportunity to earn his seventh cap for the national team.
The takeaway
Sudden injuries during club matches frequently necessitate rapid adjustments to international rosters. Fans should monitor injury reports closely as players balance demanding club schedules with their national team commitments.
Further reading
For more news on the national team, visit the Soccer section.
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