Full Breakdown
Seattle Sounders FC Announces 2026 Roster Decisions
11/26/2025, 4:54:58 PM
Roster Overview and Key Changes
Seattle Sounders FC has officially announced its roster decisions following the conclusion of the 2025 season, entering the offseason with 22 players under contract for the 2026 season. The club exercised contract options for seven players, including defenders Yeimar Gómez Andrade, Kim Kee-hee, and Kalani Kossa-Rienzi, as well as forwards Osaze De Rosario and Danny Musovski, midfielder Obed Vargas, and defender Nouhou. However, the Sounders declined options for centerback Leo Burney, goalkeeper Jacob Castro, winger Ryan Kent, and left back Travian Sousa.
In addition to these decisions, veteran goalkeeper Stefan Frei, midfielder Paul Rothrock, and midfielder João Paulo are out of contract and eligible for free agency. Frei, who has been with the Sounders since 2014, has played over 400 matches and won six titles with the club. Rothrock had a standout season, contributing five goals and nine assists in 48 matches, while Paulo has been a key player for six seasons.
Performance Recap
The Sounders finished the 2025 season with a record of 15 wins, 9 losses, and 10 draws, accumulating 55 points and securing a fifth-place finish in the Western Conference. This marked the club's 16th postseason appearance in 17 seasons. The team played a club-record 50 matches across all competitions, including participation in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup, ultimately winning the Leagues Cup 2025 title.
Official Statements
General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer Craig Waibel expressed pride in the team's performance throughout the challenging 2025 season, highlighting their commitment and resilience. He stated, “I’m incredibly proud of the way our players, coaches and staff carried themselves throughout 2025... as we make our roster decisions for 2026, we do so with gratitude for the commitment shown by everyone involved.”
Future Outlook
As the Sounders prepare for the 2026 MLS season, they have approximately $1.6 million in salary cap space and several open roster spots, including four senior, five supplemental, and five international spots. The 2026 MLS campaign is set to kick off on February 22 against the Colorado Rapids.
Criticism & Opposition
While the roster decisions have been largely anticipated, there are concerns regarding the future of key players like Stefan Frei and Paul Rothrock, who have been instrumental in the team's success. The potential loss of experienced players could impact the team's performance in the upcoming season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m incredibly proud of the way our players, coaches and staff carried themselves throughout 2025, a grueling campaign in which we played a club-record 50 matches across all competitions,” — Craig Waibel, General Manager & Chief Soccer Officer
- “Following the conclusion of Seattle’s 2025 campaign, the Rave Green have officially entered the offseason, with preparations underway for 2026.” — Seattle Sounders FC Announcement
As the Seattle Sounders FC navigates the offseason, the focus will be on building a competitive roster while addressing the challenges posed by free agency and contract negotiations.
