Seattle, Wash. — Brian Schmetzer has Seattle blood through and through. Born in the city, Schmetzer spent almost his entire playing career in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Then, once his forward/midfield career was finished, he began coaching in the area.
Now, Schmetzer has inked a deal with the Seattle Sounders to remain the head coach through 2023.
Schmetzer already has a legacy with the Sounders. Joining the organization as an assistant in 2009, Schmetzer was also in charge of the second-tier team in the USL. However, after the mutual agreement to part ways with the late Sigi Schmid, Schmetzer took over as head coach in 2016.
That same season, he led the Sounders out of a rut, back to the MLS Playoffs and lifted the trophy over Toronto FC. Seattle has been a beacon of excellence under Schmetzer, making four out of the last five MLS Cup championship matches. Seattle has two victories and two losses in the MLS Cup Final.
I am grateful for the chance Adrian gave me years ago. Thankful to all the players who have played for the Club. Proud of what my staff has accomplished and honored by those who have come before me. (R.I.P. Sigi) Thanks to all who work for the success of the Club…… #EBFG pic.twitter.com/JtsIo8vEov
— brian schmetzer (@brianschmetzer) January 25, 2021
“Brian Schmetzer and I have an almost 20-year history of working together. Although I never doubted Brian would be back in 2021 and beyond, I am grateful that he will continue to lead Sounders FC for years to come,” Adrian Hanauer, Sounders owner, said. “Brian cares deeply for our club and community, he has a deep understanding of our culture and traditions, and no one is better poised to build upon the organization’s recent success.”
Schmetzer said that he is “happy” to stay in his home of Seattle.
“It is with great pride that I will be able to continue coaching a club with such a rich history, winning tradition and positive community influence,” Schmetzer said. “I’d like to thank club ownership for this opportunity, as well as all of the current and former players, coaches and staff that have helped build something here I’m very proud of. Lastly, I’d like to thank the fans, who fuel everything we do inside of this club.”
Seattle's own.
Coach Schmetzer is right where he belongs! 🏡 pic.twitter.com/kdY8yE9X2Z
— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) January 25, 2021
Jordan Morris heads on loan
The Sounders are going to look different next season — we’ll get to the big news in a minute.
Ever since the club’s inclusion in MLS in 2009, the Sounders have made the playoffs every single year. This year is going to be a re-building year of sorts. While Nicolas Lodeiro, Stefan Frei and Raul Ruidiaz are still at the helm, the Sounders are witnessing some players head out the door.
There’s no indication that Gustav Svensson and Kelvin Leerdam are coming back. Both are out of contract right now. Svensson was been linked to China recently, while there has been little to no news on Leerdam’s return.
However, the biggest news to come out this week — before Schmetzer’s re-signing — had to do with Jordan Morris. During the MLS Cup Final last year, Morris was fielding questions about potential links to Europe. The rumors began to heat up, with clubs in Germany and England vying for him.
This time, Swansea City won, and Morris is now on loan with the English Championship club (located in Wales). Swansea currently sits in second place behind Norwich City, vying for a promotion to the EPL.
“I’m very proud of the player and professional that Jordan has become. He’s been a large part of this club’s success and has more than earned this opportunity to ply his trade abroad,” Schmetzer said. “This particular move gives him a chance to showcase his skillset and opens a number options for his future. On top of that, I am excited to watch him play for Swansea.”
Morris’ loan is for six months.
Seattle, it has been an absolute honor to play for my hometown team in front of my friends, family, and the best fans in the league 💚💙I couldn’t be more grateful for the last five years.
To my teammates, coaches and support staff, thank you for helping me grow both on and off pic.twitter.com/jU9yVwfJt4
— Jordan Morris (@JmoSmooth13) January 22, 2021
