American youngsters keep on climbing the ladder at major European clubs, with FC Dallas academy product and US youth internationalChris Richards starting his first Bayern Munich game Sunday. He exited in the 65th minute of Bayern's eventual 4-3 win over Hertha Berlin.
The 20-year-old defender featured at right back, and even assisted on Robert Lewandowski's second goal in the the 51st minute with a low, driven cross that the Polish striker capped off expertly.
Richards was particularly active on the right flank, and also factored into Lewandowski's first goal in the 40th minute. He served in the initial ball, all after previously having a first-half assist called back for offside.
Richards came off the bench for two previous games this season, and now has four appearances in 2020-21 for the German powerhouse's first team. It's a remarkable vote of confidence from head coach Hansi Flick, who's in his second year at the helm of the 2019-20 Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League winners.
Richards got the start alongside Vancouver Whitecaps FC academy product Alphonso Davies, with the 19-year-old an established part of Bayern’s core. Richards originally moved to Bayern in January 2019 for a transfer fee that could reach a reported $5 million, while Davies’ move in July 2018 came for a reported $22 million.
Richards, who’s originally from Alabama, is predominantly a center back. But he can also play out wide if needed, and featured in defense alongside established stars like David Alaba and Jerome Boateng.
