The Seattle Sounders are spiraling into a 2015-like doom, with the regular season crashing hard right now. This year feels exactly like that rough patch where the club fell completely out of rhythm, a period so bad it nearly cost Sigi Schmid his job. We’re blessed as Sounders fans, usually competing for trophies every single year, either in the final four of a knockout or within striking distance of the Shield late in the season. But 2015, 2018, and 2023 were the exceptions. Right now, 2026 is joining that list.
Another 2015? Yeah, We’re There.
Just like 2015, the Open Cup and the CCL/CCC are already out of reach for our boys. It’s a tough pill to swallow, knowing those cups are gone before we even get deep into September. Nashville’s only real competition in the Shield race is themselves, which tells you everything about where the Sounders stand there. That leaves just one trophy left worth chasing: the MLS Cup. It’s the last chance this season to remind everyone what it means to bleed green and blue in the Emerald City.
New Faces, Old Hope: Can They Turn The Ship?
With the transfer window slammed shut, our options are limited. Sure, a free agent could still drop in, but we can’t really expect that to make a meaningful impact. The big move we *did* make was bringing in Dejan Joveljić, and Deki didn’t waste any time, already springing out to the Sounders scoring leaderboard with a single brace. He’s tied for sixth in goals for the club, which is awesome to see. Adding Caden Clark was a classic Seattle flyer move, essentially no budget, no long-term commitment if it doesn’t pan out. Albert Rusnák’s contract rework is a good sign, potentially showing other players how to extend their time on the Sounders as the club looks to compete again soon. Osaze de Rosario is off to Denmark on a short loan, with an option for that club to buy him. But here’s the kicker: there are still open roster spots, open budget, and open U22 opportunities. We still have chances to move!
This Crew Has To Deliver.
This is the crew we have. We’re talking about former giants, often cut down by too many injuries, alongside youngsters who grew up watching those incredible trophy runs. We’ve got savvy vets, passed over by other organizations, and players who’ve seen the training table more often than the standings. These are our Sounders. They’re all we got, but are they all we need to get to that MLS Cup?
Next up, the Sounders host the Red Bulls this Saturday at 5:30 pm PT on Apple TV. This is it, folks. Every match is do-or-die now for the last trophy. Let’s see if this team has the fight to prove us wrong.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Sounder at Heart.
Leave a Reply