USMNT defender Chris Richards will miss the final pre-World Cup friendly against Germany due to an ankle injury, despite recently training with the team. He has been recovering since sustaining the injury on May 17 while playing for Crystal Palace. Coach Mauricio Pochettino stated that Richards is progressing but not yet ready for competition, complicating his readiness for the upcoming World Cup. This uncertainty is particularly significant as Richards is considered a key player for the USMNT. Pochettino expressed frustration at the lack of clarity around Richards' fitness, impacting roster decisions.

By the Numbers
  • Richards has been out for three weeks since his last game on May 24 against Arsenal.
  • He was recently a substitute for the UEFA Conference League final on May 27.
State of Play
  • Richards trained with his teammates for the first time in a week on Friday.
  • USMNT will face Paraguay in the World Cup opener on June 12 at SoFi Stadium.
What's Next

Richards' availability for the World Cup will be reassessed after the friendly against Germany. With the tournament fast approaching, ongoing evaluations will determine if he can take part in the USMNT's opening match and subsequent games. The coaching staff is hopeful but cautious as they navigate his recovery timeline.

Bottom Line

Chris Richards' fitness remains a critical concern as the USMNT heads into the World Cup, underscoring the importance of accurate communication between clubs and national teams regarding player health. His recovery could significantly influence the team's performance, making his situation a focal point leading into the tournament.