Seattle Sounders' 2024 MLS power ranking after week 1

The 2024 MLS season is underway, and the Seattle Sounders are generating plenty of buzz. After a strong finish to the 2023 season, many experts are placing the Rave Green near the top of the pack. But where exactly do they stand in the league's power rankings?

Leading up to the season, the Sounders were considered frontrunners in the Western Conference by several major publications, including MLSsoccer.com. This confidence stemmed from their impressive second-place finish in 2023 regular season, combined with key offseason additions like young Argentinian winger Pedro de la Vega. He's expected to add much-needed creativity and attacking prowess to the team.

Major League Soccer officially placed the Sounders at number three in their pre-season power rankings, just behind the reigning champions, Columbus Crew, and the 2023 Supporters' Shield winners, FC Cincinnati. This ranking reflects the team's strong core, defensive stability, and potential for offensive growth with the addition of de la Vega.

While the Sounders are considered favorites in the West, the 2024 season promises to be highly competitive. The arrival of global superstars like Lionel Messi at Inter Miami and Luis Suarez at Inter Miami CF injects an exciting new element, potentially shaking up the established order. Additionally, teams like FC Cincinnati and Orlando City, who performed exceptionally well in 2023, will be looking to replicate that success.

Despite the challenges, the Seattle Sounders are in a strong position for the 2024 season. Their combination of experience, young talent, and strategic acquisitions make them a force to be reckoned with. Whether they can translate their pre-season ranking into a championship run remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Sounders are a team to watch in the fight for MLS glory.

Week 1 - LAFC 2 - 1 loss

After losing to LAFC in the opening week, Sounders fell two spots and are now in 5th place. Inter Miami remains in 4th place, unchanged from the previous week. FC Cincinnati slipped from 2nd to 3rd place, while LAFC climbed five spots to become the runner-up. Columbus Crew still holds the top spot in the MLS power ranking.