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Seattle Sounders mid-season report card: What’s gone right (and what really hasn’t)

Halfway through the MLS season, the Sounders are among the top teams teams in the western conference. What got them there, and how can they improve in the final half?
ByMatthew Faucher|
May 28, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; The Seattle Sounders FC starting eleven pose for a photo prior to the game against San Diego FC during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
May 28, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; The Seattle Sounders FC starting eleven pose for a photo prior to the game against San Diego FC during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images | Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

1. Goalkeeping: A

Both Stefan Frei and his back-up, Andrew Thomas have made critical mistakes that were costly. Aside from those two mishaps, their performances have been top-notch. Frei continues to amaze and as Brian Schmetzer is quick to point out, "Stephan Frei is the best shot stopping goalkeeper in the league."

2. Defense: B-

Considering the Injuries to Alex Roldan, Jackson Ragen, Yeimar, and Kim Kee-hee, there has been an impressive next-man-up mentality that has been effective. Nouhou's play has been exceptional, as well as surprisingly good performances turned in by Stuart Russell Hawkins, Jon Bell, and Kalani Kossa-Rienzi. As their defense heals and becomes more attuned to each other, their defense can round back into the standard of excellence that the Sounders demand.

3. Midfield: C

The Sounders midfield has shown flashes of brilliance, and times where they have been inconsistent. Christian Roldan is having a career season, and is one of the Sounders players that needs to rely more on his play making ability. His counterpart, Obed Vargas has been inconsistent. He does well in games, or moments, then has terrible turnovers that lead to counter-attacks and stifle the attack. He is a young player and is gaining experience, but it isn't his talent that is hurting the Sounders, it is his decision making with the ball.

4. Attacking: D+

Albert Rusnak has been playing quality soccer all season. If he isn't scoring by driving balls between defenders' legs, he is setting up teammates for good goal scoring opportunities. The injuries to Paul Arriola and Jordan Morris have taken their toll on the Rave Green attack. Arriola has not had the opportunity to showcase his talents. When Ryan Kent was brought in as a replacement, the Sounders front line was their most dangerous. With Speedy attackers (Morris and Kent together) on both sides, defenses couldn't keep up and passing lanes opened up. Kent has struggled after the injury to Morris to connect with his teammates and contribute more to the attack. While Musovski had a good streak, and Ferreria scored his 1st goal for the Sounders, they will need more out of their attack in the second half of the season.

5. Overall: B-

The Sounders continue to improve as the season goes on. As they get their key players back from injuries, they may be able to realize their potential. They will need to be more consistent in each part of the game, and more creative on offense without pressing too hard. They have the talent, but they don't have the cohesiveness that will emphasize their identity as an elite MLS team.

The Sounders have not been exceptional at any aspect of the game. They are decent in just about every area, but often lack an exploitable skill in an area that gives them an advantage. The only players that show up in the top 25 on the leader boards are Albert Rusnak and Christian Roldan. Rusnak is 1st in shot assists and key passes and 4th in successful crosses. He is tied for 15th in goals with 7. Roldan is tied for 12th in assists with 6.

As a team, they are 1st in free kicks and second in corners. Basically, they get lots of shots with few goals. They get good scoring opportunities but don't convert them into goals. They are 4th in the league in completed passes, but not in the attacking 3rd, which drops them to 9th in passing percentage. If they can improve their completed pass percentage and their ability to convert attacks to goals, they will have the opportunity to be on top of the Western Conference.

Players to look for:

Stefan Frei: Like a fine wine, he keeps getting better with age.

Nouhou Tolo: Nouhou scored his 2nd career goal for the Sounders, when he is on the attack, the Sounders are more dynamic. His athleticism and experience makes him a premier lock down defender that is rarely beat.

Albert Rusnak: Rusnak has been the engine for the Sounders attack for the first half of the season. His play has been superb, and his technical skill continues to impress as he needs others to step up and deliver.

Jordan Morris and Ryan Kent: This two-headed snake may cause fits for defenders. Their speed and skill could restore the Sounders to their dynasty-level dominance.

Obed Vargas and Christian Roldan: As these two midfielders become more creative and consistent, they will solve the disconnect between the defensive line and the offensive lines making the counter-attack more of a weapon for Seattle. If they fail at this, the Sounders attack will struggle to gain traction and their defense will be pressed and that has been a sore spot for the Sounders in the first half of the season.

Georgi Minoungou: Minoungou's ability to breeze by a defender is impressive. Unfortunately he hasn't been able to connect with other attackers. He does offer an unknown element that will keep defenses guessing and making mistakes. With a talent ladened offense, it is up to Brian Schmetzer to figure out a way to integrate him consistently into the Seattle attack.

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