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Bayern Munich II defender Chris Richards had an extremely strong season in 3.Liga, and his performance has caught the attention of a pretty important person in United States soccer: USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter.
In an interview with Sport Bild, Berhalter spoke earnestly about Richards and his development with Bayern Munich.
“Of course I also am keeping an eye on him. Chris is one of our central defenders for the future,” Berhalter said. “I’m very happy with his development, and I think the cooperation and the regular communication between us as an American association and FC Bayern is outstanding. We are trying to develop a great player from a great talent together. Bayern has a plan with Chris, he has optimal conditions in Munich, and he’s receiving competitive experience. He will raise his already strong level even further in the new season.”
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In addition to Richards, Berhalter also gave his thoughts on Borussia Dortmund midfielder Gio Reyna and Werder Bremen forward Josh Sargent, who also figure to be a key player for the USMNT.
“Gio hasn’t played an A-level international match yet only because our friendlies against Holland and Wales in March were canceled on account of the coronavirus pandemic. He’ll get a chance in our next international match, that’s very clear” said Berhalter. “Reyna has a fantastic mentality. He’s still a teenager but plays like an old hand ... At BVB he now has a great chance of starting a great career.”
Berhalter then praised Sargent’s work ethic and resilience to continuing to battle for playing time at Werder Bremen.
“If you move from home to Europe at a young age, you have to grow up much faster,” Berhalter said. “You’re alone, without your family, and you have to fight for everything at the beginning. That shapes and hardens a player. A good example is Josh Sargent. He didn’t always reach his top level at Werder, but he stuck through it and earned a place on the team.”