The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) has received a massive tactical and emotional boost on the eve of their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed during his final pre-match press conference on Thursday that star defender Chris Richards is officially available for selection.
The co-hosts prepare to open Group D play on Friday night against a physical Paraguay side at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Richards has spent the last month in a race against time following a severe ankle injury sustained during the final stretch of the English Premier League season.
What did Mauricio Pochettino say about Richards’ status?
Pochettino remained strategically ambiguous about whether the Crystal Palace center-back would be named to the starting eleven or begin the match on the bench. However, he made it clear that the final tactical decision has already been locked in behind closed doors.
“Chris is available to be selected, and then we will decide if he starts from the beginning of the game or is on the bench,” Pochettino stated to reporters.
The coach explained that the complete starting lineup is “already decided,” but he will keep his tactical cards close to his chest until the official sheets are turned in before Friday’s opening whistle.
🎙️ Mauricio Pochettino on Chris Richards’ status for the World Cup opener vs Paraguay:
“Chris is available to be selected. We will decide if he starts from the beginning of the game or on the bench.” pic.twitter.com/oSbx5GHRfL
— USMNT Otaku 🇺🇸 (@USMNTOtaku) June 12, 2026
What Happened To Chris Richards? Ankle Injury Update
The 26-year-old Richards suffered two torn ligaments in his left ankle on May 17 while playing for Crystal Palace. The injury ruled him out of the United States’ final two warm-up matches before the World Cup — a 3-2 win over Senegal and a 2-1 loss to Germany.
However, the 26-year-old recovered quicker than expected and returned to full training with the squad this week. Richards also sounded confident when speaking about his condition ahead of the tournament opener.
“I’m ready to go,” he said.
Richards revealed that the medical team has not placed any restrictions on his playing time and admitted he was determined to make himself available for the World Cup.
“It’s the World Cup. I was going to make myself ready regardless. If there’s any time to sacrifice yourself, it’s now. I know I’m able to play Friday, but I don’t make those decisions.”
USMNT vs Paraguay Preview
Richards’ return is a major boost for a USA side hoping to make a strong start in Group D, which also includes Australia and Türkiye.
If selected, the Crystal Palace defender is expected to partner either Tim Ream or Miles Robinson in central defence. His pace, aerial ability and experience could prove crucial against a Paraguay team known for its physical style of play.
Even if Richards starts on the bench, his availability gives Pochettino an important defensive option as the USMNT begins its World Cup journey on home soil.
