Mauricio Pochettino Addresses Chris Richards Injury News Before World Cup

Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images

Mauricio Pochettino Addresses Chris Richards Injury News Before World Cup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated May 28, 2026 6:30 PM ET

Following the USMNT World Cup squad on Tuesday, Mauricio Pochettino was asked a lot about the players he picked as the best fit for this summer's World Cup.

25 of the 26 USMNT World Cup squad were present at the roster presentation this past Tueaday expect for Chris Richards, who was with his club Crystal Palace ahead of the UEFA Conference League Final.

Richards suffered two torn ligaments in his ankle and missed Crystal Palace's final game this Premier League season and missed the Conference League Final last night, which they won 1-0 over Rayo Vallecano.

Chris Richards of Crystal Palace bites his winers medal after the UEFA Conference League Final 2026 between Crystal Palace FC and Rayo Vallecano de Madrid at The Red Bull Arena on May 27, 2026 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by KontentHaus/Getty Images)Photo by KontentHaus/Getty Images

USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino was asked about Richards' injury and revealed to have a plan in case the defender does recover in time for the World Cup.

Mauricio Pochettino on Chris Richards' Injury

After the announcement of the USMNT World Cup squad, Pochettino was asked about Richards' recent injury.

Pochettino hinted at planning to look for alternatives if Richards does not recover in time.

Pochettino said, "We don’t know [about Richards’ status and availability.] We'll see tomorrow if he plays, and then we will decide. We have time before the World Cup to start making changes if needed. I cannot guess my lineups because we need to train tomorrow and see the level of the players."

The USMNT players trained together yesterday, while Richards was with Crystal Palace, winning the Conference League Final. Richards did not play in the final and is set to report with the USMNT tomorrow.

Richards was available to play yesterday and is expected to be fully recovered in time for the World Cup.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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