PREVIEW – Seattle Sounders FC host their 2023 MLS season opener at Lumen Field against Colorado Rapids. Rave Green have already played a competitive game in the Club World Cup. While they’ve got the competitive juices flowing, an injury could complicate things for Head Coach Brian Schmetzer.
Seattle Sounders Lineup Prediction vs Real Salt Lake on February 26
Seattle’ Stable Roster
The Sounders have returned most of the squad from last year who were the first MLS team to win Concacaf Champions League. Maybe the only significant departures were bench midfielder Jimmy Medranda and Will Bruin, who was a great backup striker option. Fredy Montero re-signed as a free agent and the club brought in Héber from New York City FC, which could be significant. There’s a few new Homegrowns signed. Other than that, Seattle’s running it back with a squad that’s fresh, healthy and looking to return to the playoffs.
Sounders Injuries to Consider
The big news going into this game for Seattle is that Raúl Ruidíaz is questionable due to a right hamstring strain, per the MLS Availability Report. Further reports suggest that he will not play. Even with a new signing, Ruidíaz is still the preferred starter at this position. This could make it more difficult for Seattle to break down an improved Colorado Rapids defense.
Obed Vargas and Raúl Ruidíaz will be unavailable for tomorrow’s opening day match against the Colorado Rapids due to injury
— Rave Green TV (@RaveGreenTV) February 25, 2023
Read More: 2023 Colorado Rapids Season Preview
Seattle Sounders Story Lines vs Colorado Rapids
This club missed the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in their history last year. They were one-and-done in the Club World Cup, unlucky to lose 1-0 to Al Ahly. Garth Lagerwey, who built the team that won multiple MLS Cups and CCL, has left the front office. They’re out to prove they’re still one of the best teams in MLS and to again bring trophies back to Washington state. Will they get back to the playoffs? Most likely. Can they win silverware? Yes. They’ve returned their (albeit aging) core. Given how last year ended and Lagerwey’s departure, they might be doubted for the first time in years. They can prove they’re still a super club by dominating Colorado on Sunday night.
Seattle Sounders Predicted Lineup vs Colorado
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK – Stefan Frei
RB – Alex Roldan
CB – Yeimar Gómez Andrade
CB- Jackson Ragen
LB – Nouhou Tolo
CM – João Paulo
CM – Albert Rusnák
RM – Cristian Roldan
CAM – Nicolás Lodeiro
LM – Jordan Morris
ST – Héber
