Month: May 2026

U.S. SOCCER NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER (Fayetteville, Ga.) — United States center back Chris Richards, the top defender on coach Mauricio Pochettino’s U.S. squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, won’t play in Sunday’s pre-tournament preparation match against African power Senegal in Charlotte. Richards injured ligaments in his left ankle playing for English Premier League club Crystal Palace on May 17. He was healthy enough to train ahead of Palace’s UEFA Conference League final win over Spain’s Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday and dress for the match, but didn’t get off the bench. The 26-year-old Birmingham, Alabama native traveled across the Atlantic the next day and arrived at U.S. Soccer’s sprawling practice facility on Friday morning, though he didn’t work out with teammates later in the day. During Saturday’s pre-match press conference at the USA’s facility outside Atlanta, I asked Pochettino for an update on Richards’ health. “We decided with Chris, with the medical and the performance staff, to not to be part of the group that is going to be in North Carolina playing tomorrow against Senegal,” he said.  “I think he needs to keep doing his rehab, and I think it’s much better to stay here and plan to train and reevaluate next week how he is.” – Meet USA’s Captain: Tim Ream To Wear World Cup Armband With the USA’s June 12 World Cup opener against Paraguay now less than two weeks away, Richards’ ankle is obviously a serious concern for the former Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager. Pochettino revealed that he’s repeatedly sought updates on Richards’ status from his top assistant coach, Jesús Pérez, over the last couple of days. “I was asking from yesterday, [when Richards] arrived, to Jesús 100 times: What do you think?” Pochettino said. “The answer was ‘wait, wait, wait, wait.’ Yes, it’s too early. We need to see. The next few days are going to be key to see [if he’ll] be ready or not for the World Cup.” If Richards can’t play, the Argentine has options. Although Pochettino named the 26-player U.S. squad on May 26, the 48 participating teams aren’t required to submit their final rosters to FIFA until Monday. Even then, Pochettino could replace Richards or any other injured player up to 24 hours before their first World Cup game.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

Arne Slot has broken his silence and sent a direct message to Liverpool supporters just minutes after his shock sacking was officially confirmed by the club. The Dutch tactician has parted ways with the Premier League giants after a two-year tenure, following a disappointing second season that saw the Reds fail to secure any silverware. Reds dismiss Dutch manager Liverpool officially relieved Slot of his duties after a two-year tenure at Anfield. The club announced the termination of his contract in a comprehensive joint statement alongside ownership, describing the dismissal as an incredibly difficult decision. While the Dutchman secured the Premier League title during his debut campaign, a subsequent drop in form saw the club finish fifth and endure a trophyless season. Club releases lengthy statement In a joint statement, the club and owners praised Slot’s impact despite his exit: “The contribution Arne has made to Liverpool FC in the time that he has been with us has been significant, meaningful and – most importantly of all to supporters and ourselves – successful. “As such, our appreciation for everything he has achieved could not be greater, particularly as it was underpinned by a work ethic, a diligence and a level of expertise, which further underlined our view that he is a leader in his field. “The compassion and humanity he showed throughout that time said a great deal about him as a person. As such, we can only wish Arne well in the next stage of his coaching career, with our expectation being that he will continue to be successful. We do so in the knowledge that his Liverpool legacy is intact and will become yet more meaningful in the years and decades to come. “Nevertheless, the conclusion we have come to is built on a belief that the team’s trajectory is best addressed through a change of direction. That does not diminish the work Arne has done here, or the respect we have for him. Nor is it a reflection of his talents. Rather, it is indicative of the need for a different approach. “Arne leaves with our gratitude, with a Premier League title to his name, and with the knowledge that he and his family will always be welcomed back at Anfield.” Slot delivers parting message Despite the sudden nature of the announcement, the departing head coach immediately expressed his gratitude to the fans. Shared online via journalist Fabrizio Romano shortly after the club confirmation broke, Slot reflected on his time on Merseyside, stating: “It’s been an amazing ride together with Liverpool. I am so grateful that we were able to win the league last season.” Anfield hierarchy seek successor Liverpool must now navigate an unexpected managerial transition as they look to reverse a declining trajectory before the upcoming season begins. Former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has emerged as the early frontrunner for the vacancy following his impressive sixth-place finish with the Cherries. The incoming boss faces a stern test to restructure the squad, rebuild morale, and prepare for a demanding return to Champions League football.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports