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USMNT Star Richards Injured in Cup Exit
24 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Chris Richards sustained a foot injury requiring stitches during a match.
- The defender was stretchered off, raising concerns for the USMNT.
- Crystal Palace manager believes the injury may not be long-term.
U.S. men's national team defender Chris Richards suffered an injury during Crystal Palace's Carabao Cup quarterfinal match against Arsenal, leading to his removal from the field on a stretcher in the 75th minute. The injury, sustained after a collision in the air, appeared significant with a gash on his right foot.
This incident casts a shadow over Richards's availability for both Crystal Palace and the U.S. national team, where he is a crucial center-back expected to partner with veteran Tim Ream in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team, already grappling with Tyler Adams's knee injury, needs key players healthy for the tournament hosted partly on home soil.
However, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner expressed cautious optimism post-match, suggesting the injury might not be long-term. He stated the defender needed stitches for his foot after being stamped on, but initial assessments indicated it was not a severe issue. Both Crystal Palace and the USMNT will continue to monitor Richards's recovery closely.
