Bayern Munich has high hopes for Chris Richards at Hoffenheim

The loan deal between Bayern Munich and Hoffenheim for Chris Richards was hailed as a great fit for the American youngster. The Alabama native will not only have a chance to face-off with top-notch Bundesliga competition, but will also have a chance to play on the European stage during Europa League action.

For Bayern Munich campus director Jochen Sauer, the loan move was a natural progression that will help Richards’ development.

“Chris was a mainstay in the 3rd division and delivered outstanding games,” said Sauer to FCBayern.com. “He was certainly a decisive factor in why things went so well. He still has a lot of potential, but he won’t make the decisive leap in his development in (3. Liga). He can still learn a lot, especially in the tactical area. But he can’t gain this experience in the pros at the moment because there’s a lot of competition for this position. If a Bundesliga club like Hoffenheim, where young players get a chance and are used, then he can make the step to a Bundesliga player with a coach (Sebastian Hoeneß) he knows. Hopefully he can then follow that up at Bayern and get his playing time.”

Richards got off to a strong start in his first match against Eintracht Frankfurt, but was hobbled last week by a knock. No doubt, Richards will be eager to get back into action.