Seattle Sounders FC Squad 2025
The Seattle Sounders FC have long been a powerhouse in Major League Soccer (MLS), consistently fielding competitive squads that blend experienced veterans with emerging talents. As the 2025 season approaches, the Sounders have meticulously assembled a roster designed to contend for both domestic and international honors. This year’s squad reflects a strategic balance of youth and experience, with players hailing from diverse backgrounds and bringing unique skill sets to the team. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the 2025 Seattle Sounders FC squad, categorized by position, and provide an in-depth analysis of each player’s profile, including their nationality, career trajectory, former clubs, and transfer details.
Goalkeepers
1. Stefan Frei
Nationality: Swiss-American
Former Clubs: Toronto FC (MLS), FC Basel (Switzerland).
Transfer Fee: Originally signed as a free agent in 2014
Stefan Frei remains the cornerstone of the Sounders’ defense heading into 2025. At 38 years old, Frei’s experience and leadership are invaluable. Known for his acrobatic saves and impeccable positioning, Frei has been a consistent performer for over a decade. His heroics in the 2016 MLS Cup penalty shootout cemented his legacy as one of the league’s greatest goalkeepers. Despite his age, Frei continues to defy expectations, maintaining a save percentage of 72% in the 2024 season. His ability to organize the backline and command the penalty area remains unmatched.
2. Andrew Thomas
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Stanford University (NCAA), Atlanta United (MLS).
Transfer Fee: Acquired via trade in 2023 for $100,000 in allocation money
Andrew Thomas, the 26-year-old English shot-stopper, serves as a reliable backup to Frei. Standing at 6’5”, Thomas boasts an imposing presence and exceptional reflexes. After a standout collegiate career at Stanford, he briefly joined Atlanta United before finding his way to Seattle. Thomas has shown flashes of brilliance in limited appearances, including a standout performance in the 2024 U.S. Open Cup. His distribution and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with the Sounders’ tactical philosophy.
3. Jacob Castro
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: University of California, Irvine (NCAA), Tacoma Defiance (USL).
Transfer Fee: Homegrown signing
A product of the Sounders’ academy system, Jacob Castro is the third-choice goalkeeper for the 2025 season. At just 22 years old, Castro is viewed as a long-term project with significant potential. His agility and quick decision-making have been honed during his time with Tacoma Defiance, where he recorded 10 clean sheets in the 2023 USL season. While he is unlikely to see significant first-team action in 2025, Castro’s development is a testament to the Sounders’ commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Defenders
1. Yeimar Gómez Andrade
Nationality: Colombian
Former Clubs: Unión Magdalena (Colombia), Independiente Santa Fe (Colombia).
Transfer Fee: Signed in 2020 for $500,000
Yeimar Gómez Andrade continues to be a defensive stalwart for the Sounders. The 32-year-old center-back combines physicality with tactical intelligence, making him one of the most reliable defenders in MLS. In 2024, he led the team in interceptions (78) and clearances (145). His ability to read the game and initiate attacks from the back has been instrumental in the Sounders’ success. Yeimar’s leadership and consistency make him a fan favorite and a key figure in the squad.
2. Xavier Arreaga
Nationality: Ecuadorian
Former Clubs: Barcelona SC (Ecuador), Seattle Sounders FC (since 2019).
Transfer Fee: Signed in 2019 for $2 million
Xavier Arreaga, now 30, remains a vital part of the Sounders’ defensive unit. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to play out from the back, Arreaga has formed a formidable partnership with Yeimar. His versatility allows him to slot into a defensive midfield role when needed. In 2024, Arreaga recorded an impressive passing accuracy of 89%, highlighting his technical proficiency. His experience in international competitions with Ecuador further bolsters his value to the team.
3. Nouhou Tolo
Nationality: Cameroonian
Former Clubs: Rainbow FC (Cameroon), Seattle Sounders FC (since 2017).
Transfer Fee: Signed in 2017 for $50,000
Nouhou Tolo, the dynamic left-back, is renowned for his speed, tenacity, and defensive prowess. At 28, Nouhou has become one of the most consistent full-backs in MLS. His ability to shut down opposing wingers and contribute to the attack has made him indispensable. In 2024, he recorded 4 assists and 2 goals, showcasing his growing offensive contributions. Nouhou’s performances for Cameroon in the Africa Cup of Nations have further elevated his profile.
4. Alex Roldan
Nationality: Salvadoran-American
Former Clubs: Seattle University (NCAA), Tacoma Defiance (USL).
Transfer Fee: Homegrown signing
Alex Roldan, the 28-year-old right-back, has developed into a key player for the Sounders. Known for his work rate and crossing ability, Roldan has become a reliable presence on the flank. In 2024, he contributed 6 assists and created 45 chances, underscoring his offensive impact. His dual nationality has also seen him represent El Salvador internationally, adding to his experience and versatility.
5. Jackson Ragen
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: University of Michigan (NCAA), Tacoma Defiance (USL).
Transfer Fee: Homegrown signing
Jackson Ragen, the 26-year-old center-back, has emerged as a promising talent in the Sounders’ defensive ranks. Standing at 6’6”, Ragen dominates aerial duels and has shown remarkable improvement in his positioning and distribution. In 2024, he won 68% of his aerial battles and maintained a passing accuracy of 87%. Ragen’s development is a testament to the Sounders’ robust academy system.
Midfielders
1. João Paulo
Nationality: Brazilian
Former Clubs: Botafogo (Brazil), Al-Wasl (UAE).
Transfer Fee: Signed in 2020 for $2.5 million
João Paulo, the 33-year-old Brazilian midfielder, remains the engine of the Sounders’ midfield. Known for his vision, passing range, and set-piece expertise, João Paulo has been a consistent performer since joining the club. In 2024, he recorded 8 assists and 5 goals, highlighting his offensive contributions. His leadership and experience are invaluable, especially in high-pressure situations.
2. Cristian Roldan
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: University of Washington (NCAA), Tacoma Defiance (USL).
Transfer Fee: Homegrown signing
Cristian Roldan, the 29-year-old box-to-box midfielder, is the heartbeat of the Sounders’ midfield. Known for his relentless energy and tactical intelligence, Roldan has become one of the most consistent players in MLS. In 2024, he contributed 7 goals and 9 assists, showcasing his all-around abilities. His versatility allows him to play in multiple positions, making him a crucial asset for the team.
3. Josh Atencio
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: Tacoma Defiance (USL).
Transfer Fee: Homegrown signing
Josh Atencio, the 23-year-old defensive midfielder, has quickly risen through the ranks to become a key player for the Sounders. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to break up play, Atencio has drawn comparisons to a young Osvaldo Alonso. In 2024, he recorded 65 interceptions and maintained a passing accuracy of 88%. His potential is immense, and he is expected to play a significant role in 2025.
4. Albert Rusnák
Nationality: Slovakian
Former Clubs: Manchester City (England), Real Salt Lake (MLS).
Transfer Fee: Signed in 2022 as a free agent
Albert Rusnák, the 30-year-old attacking midfielder, brings creativity and technical brilliance to the Sounders’ midfield. Known for his dribbling and ability to unlock defenses, Rusnák has been a consistent performer since joining the club. In 2024, he contributed 10 assists and 6 goals, underscoring his offensive impact. His experience in European football adds a layer of sophistication to the Sounders’ play.
Forwards
1. Raúl Ruidíaz
Nationality: Peruvian
Former Clubs: Universitario (Peru), Morelia (Mexico), Seattle Sounders FC.
Transfer Fee: Signed in 2018 for $14 million
Raúl Ruidíaz, the 34-year-old Peruvian striker, remains the focal point of the Sounders’ attack. Known for his clinical finishing and intelligent movement, Ruidíaz has been one of the most prolific scorers in MLS history. In 2024, he netted 18 goals, continuing his remarkable consistency. His ability to perform in high-pressure moments has made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the squad.
2. Jordan Morris
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: Stanford University (NCAA), Swansea City (England).
Transfer Fee: Homegrown signing
Jordan Morris, the 30-year-old winger, continues to be a dynamic force for the Sounders. Known for his speed and versatility, Morris can play as a winger or a central striker. In 2024, he contributed 12 goals and 7 assists, showcasing his offensive prowess. His return to Seattle after a brief stint in England has been a boon for the team, and he remains a key player in 2025.
3. Léo Chú
Nationality: Brazilian
Former Clubs: Grêmio (Brazil).
Transfer Fee: Signed in 2021 for $2.5 million
Léo Chú, the 24-year-old Brazilian winger, has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in MLS. Known for his dribbling and creativity, Chú has become a fan favorite with his flair and attacking contributions. In 2024, he recorded 8 assists and 5 goals, highlighting his growing influence. His potential is immense, and he is expected to play a significant role in 2025.
4. Dylan Teves
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: University of Washington (NCAA), Tacoma Defiance (USL).
Transfer Fee: Homegrown signing
Dylan Teves, the 24-year-old forward, is a product of the Sounders’ academy system. Known for his work rate and versatility, Teves can play as a winger or an attacking midfielder. In 2024, he contributed 4 goals and 6 assists, showcasing his potential. His development is a testament to the Sounders’ commitment to nurturing young talent.
Conclusion
The 2025 Seattle Sounders FC squad is a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents, each contributing unique qualities to the team. With a strong defensive core, a dynamic midfield, and a potent attack, the Sounders are well-positioned to compete for silverware on multiple fronts. The strategic recruitment and development of players reflect the club’s long-term vision and commitment to excellence. As the season unfolds, the Sounders will aim to build on their rich history and continue their legacy as one of MLS’s most successful franchises.
