The U.S. men’s national team has had plenty of success recruiting dual-nationals in recent years, but one potential star has gotten away.
Amir Richardson came on as an 85th-minute sub in Morocco’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying win against Tanzania on Tuesday, permanently tying him to the Atlas Lions.
The appearance was Richardson’s third cap for Morocco but first in an official competition, locking down the 21-year-old Reims midfielder who was also eligible to represent France.
Richardson’s father is four-time NBA All-Star Micheal Ray Richardson, who was playing professionally in France when his son was born. The midfielder is eligible for Morocco through his mother.
The center midfielder inherited his father’s height, standing at an imposing 6-foot-5. After starring on loan in Ligue 2 with Le Havre last season, Richardson has become a regular in the French top flight with Reims this term.
Though Tuesday’s appearance made it official, Richardson has been solidly in Morocco’s camp despite some reported attempts from U.S. Soccer to change his mind.
The midfielder has never played for the U.S. at any level, appearing with France’s U-20 side back in 2021 and 2022 before switching over to Morocco.
Richardson has been involved with Morocco’s U-23 side this year and looks to have a decent chance to play at next summer’s Olympics. The midfielder earned his first two senior caps this fall, with Tuesday making it official that his international future will be with the World Cup semifinalists.
Source : Pro Soccer Wire
Add Comment