Amir Richardson: Reims’ midfielder is ready to make a name f

The 21-year-old joined Reims in 2022 but spent a year with Le Havre AC in Ligue 2 on loan. Spending time there bodes well for Richardson since Le Club Doyen has produced talented players like Ryad Mahrez, Paul Pogba, and Ferland Mendy. Richardson could be the next player to join this list.

Furthermore, the midfielder can count on his father to help him navigate life as a professional athlete. He’s the son of four-time NBA All-Star Micheal Ray Richardson, so if the Reims star needs any advice, there’s someone for him to go to.

After returning to the Champagne side this past summer, Richardson has hit the ground running with three goals and one assist in 11 appearances in all competitions. His current form has allowed him to hit the national stage, as he recently earned a call-up to the Moroccan national team.

Richarson briefly appeared in the FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Tanzania in November, where Morocco won 2-0. Richardson may also be named to the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in January if he continues his current form.

Meanwhile, at Reims, the youngster could be playing in Europe next year. Reims currently finds itself fighting not only for a European spot for the 2024-25 season but also for a UEFA Champions League berth. They’re in fifth place after their impressive 2-1 win over RC Strasbourg Alsace on Friday night at the Stade Auguste-Delaune.

If Reims can grab a Champions League spot for next season, they can put a spotlight on their project under current manager Will Still, allowing more football fans to know Richardson as one of the top young talents in Ligue 1.