Pochettino frustrated as Richards’ World Cup status remains unclear

Mauricio Pochettino admitted his frustration on Friday as uncertainty continues to surround Chris Richards’ place in the United States’ World Cup squad. The Crystal Palace centre‑back, capped thirty‑six times, has been sidelined with an ankle injury since mid‑May and missed Saturday’s friendly against Germany in Chicago. Although named in the tournament squad, Richards can still be replaced under FIFA rules until twenty‑four hours before the USA’s opening match.

Pochettino said the defender is training but remains unfit to compete, adding that the staff will reassess him in the coming days before making a final decision. The US, co‑hosting the World Cup with Canada and Mexico, begin their campaign next Friday in Los Angeles against Paraguay. Defensive concerns persist after conceding twice to Senegal last weekend, with Tim Ream and Mark McKenzie looking vulnerable. Pochettino admitted irritation over unclear medical timelines, noting that waiting too long could leave the team with an unprepared player.