Chris Richards to Crystal Palace: How FC Dallas benefit from Bayern Munich’s transfer

Richards, 22, was loaned to Bayern shortly after he signed his first professional deal with Dallas, appearing regularly with Bayern’s U-19 team. Bayern then secured a permanent transfer for the Alabama native, a shining example of the clubs’ partnership.

He spent two seasons on loan with Bundesliga side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, who reportedly tried to sign Richards permanently last summer. He made 34 appearances with the German club before (briefly) returning to Bayern this summer, appearing in 10 matches total for the Bavarian powerhouse.

Crystal Palace are managed by former New York City FC boss Patrick Vieira and finished 12th in the Premier League last season. Their key players include England international center back Marc Guehi and Ivory Coast international forward Wilfried Zaha.

“We believe very much in our players that we know for such a long time,” Zanotta said. “We know their potential and we know their first step in Europe is just the first step. … We truly believe in our players to make another jump.”