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6d ago

USMNT Submits World Cup Roster With Injured Center Back Chris Richards Included

FIFA rules that allow replacements until 24 hours before the United States’ first match mean Richards’ spot remains provisional.

Deadspin.com
An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Chris Richards of the United States warm ups during the USMNT training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground on March 23, 2026 in Marietta, Georgia, Image 2 shows Chris Richards of the United States passes the ball during the USMNT training at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground on March 23, 2026 in Marietta, Georgia.
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Overview

  • The U.S. officially filed its 26-man World Cup roster on Monday with Chris Richards listed and present at the team’s training camp.
  • Richards suffered torn ankle ligaments while playing for Crystal Palace in mid‑May and was named to the final roster less than two weeks after the injury.
  • Coach Mauricio Pochettino has publicly said he is unsure whether Richards will be fit for the tournament and called the coming days key for his recovery.
  • A 3-2 friendly win over Senegal highlighted defensive lapses, including turnovers by Miles Robinson and Antonee Robinson that led to goals and underscored thin center-back depth without Richards.
  • FIFA allows squads to replace an injured outfield player up to 24 hours before their first match, so U.S. Soccer can still swap Richards before the June 12 opener but must decide in the coming days.