The popularity of soccer is rising faster than ever in the United States, with huge successes by the US Women’s National Team and the growth of MLS. Still, few American players have made it across the pond and onto the rosters of Europe’s top clubs.

Alabama-native Chris Richards is one of the few Americans to take his talents to the German Bundesliga, building stronger ties between German soccer clubs and their American counterparts. After impressing coaches while on loan from FC Dallas in 2018, Richards recently penned a permanent transfer deal to play with the reigning Bundesliga champions FC Bayern Munich until 2023.

In a recent interview, Richards described his first impressions of his new life in Germany. He lives, practices, and plays at the FC Bayern Munich Campus with about 40 other young players, who he says have become like brothers. Living with his new friends, he’s already begun adjusting to German culture. He’s especially fond of German cuisine and learning fun new words like Kühlschrank.

Richards currently plays with the U19 squad, but he made his debut with Bayern’s first team in a victory against Paris St. Germain only two weeks after his arrival in Europe.

Find out more about Bayern Munich and see game results here.