Seattle, Washington — A familiar face is back in Major League Soccer. With the transfer window closing throughout the league, the Seattle Sounders FC made two big moves to help their offense. One of their new additions is a former Real Salt Lake man.
Luis Silva spent a total of three seasons with Real Salt Lake. He originally joined the Utah-based club in 2015, but rejoined in 2017-18. However, he began his MLS career with Toronto FC, way back in 2012. He spent two seasons in Canada before moving to the United States, signing with D.C. United in 2013.
The 30-year-old from Mexico serves as an attacking midfielder, but can also be slotted as a forward.
“We are pleased to add a pair of quality players to our roster as the window closes this summer,” Garth Lagerwey, Sounderrs general manager and president of soccer, said. “Emanuel gives us a good, versatile option in the midfield, while Luis provides us another option and some good depth in the attack. Combined with our other signings this season, we feel confident in our position to make a strong run as we approach the final third of the season and playoffs.”
Silva went overseas after his MLS journey to feature for FC Honka in Finland. He scored three goals in 13 appearances so far this year, but elected to return to the United States. Silva also spent a brief season in his home of Mexico, signings with Tigres in 2016.
Now, he’ll look to add to his impressive MLS resume, where he has made 157 appearances, scored 32 goals and provided 16 assists.
First day of training ✅
Emanuel Cecchini is stoked to be a Sounder! pic.twitter.com/jDFA3FFlIm
— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) August 8, 2019
On loan from Spain
Meanwhile, Cecchini is a new face to MLS.
Hailing from Argentina, Cecchini is on loan from Malága, a club in Spain’s second division. He has made three appearances for the club, where he moved to in 2017. The Argentinian began his career with Banfield in his home country. He made 31 appearances for the club from 2013-17.
Cecchini returned to Banfield in 2018-19, going on loan and making 15 more appearances. A midfielder, Cecchini is well-needed on the Sounders offense. The team has been dealing with injury after injury being dealt to Victor Rodriguez, a Spanish international. Cecchini’s loan goes through the team’s 2020 season.
“As a coach, I’m always happy when we add quality players to the team,” coach Brian Schmetzer said. “Emanuel and Luis give us two more options to our squad, so I’m looking forward to bringing them in and seeing how they mesh with the group.”
Meanwhile, Chris Henderson, Sounders vice president of soccer and the team’s sporting director, said he’s glad to bring in two technical player.
“This roster has competitive depth at each position, and we are confident in our group heading into important fixtures down the stretch,” Henderson said.
Can't wait for Saturday 💥
The #SEAvNE Scouting Report ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/mZmMetrYyF
— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) August 9, 2019
What’s Next?
Seattle finishes up a home-stand against the New England Revolution on Saturday. After falling to Sporting Kansas City last weekend, the Sounders will look to bounce back at 4 p.m. EST/1 p.m. PT.
