'It’s a chance for not just me but for everybody to step up' - Chris Richards views Christian Pulisic absence as leadership opportunity for USMNT squad

With Christian Pulisic set to miss the Gold Cup, USMNT defender Chris Richards addressed the situation, believing that the squad has players who will step up in their captain’s absence. The 25-year-old believes he can be a part of the solution.

“Yeah, like you said it’s a chance for me to step up,” Richards said on CBS Sports Golazo America. “I think one thing about Christian is that he’s not a vocal leader but he’s someone who leads by example. So again, I think it’s a chance for not just me but for everybody around here to step up, whether it’s with their performance or whether it’s verbally."

He added, “I know a lot of us are ready and willing to take that kind of role on, but me in particular, that’s something that I’d like to do as well. Like I said, Christian left some sort of gap, but I know we have a lot of guys here who are ready to fill it.”

The United States team has faced criticism following disappointing performances in recent tournaments, and these setbacks have raised questions about the team's mental fortitude and leadership structure beyond Pulisic. Richards represents part of a core group of players who must establish themselves as reliable leaders if the team hopes to make a significant impact at their home World Cup.

The USMNT begin their summer schedule with friendly matches against Turkey and Switzerland before opening their 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign in Group D against Trinidad and Tobago on June 14. These fixtures will serve as the first test of the team's ability to function effectively without key players like Pulisic and Antonee Robinson as well.