The Seattle Sounders are no strangers to playoff success, with a history that includes two MLS Cup titles and consistent postseason appearances. However, the 2024 season has been anything but smooth for the team. After a shaky start, the Sounders have found themselves in a position where they could be one of the most dangerous teams heading into the MLS playoffs. With key injuries, mid-season transfers, the emergence of young talents, and a battle for consistency, Seattle is poised to make a strong push in the final stretch of the season. Here’s a look at what got them here and what it will take to make a deep playoff run.
The Sounders began the season in uncharacteristically poor form. Defensive lapses and lackluster finishing plagued the team, leading to some unconvincing results. A mid-season trade saw longtime defender Xavier Arreaga sent to the New England Revolution, a move that surprised many fans but also addressed a pressing need for salary cap relief and flexibility. Arreaga's departure opened the door for Jackson Ragen and other players to step up.
Seattle’s struggles were compounded by an early injury to one of their big offseason signings, Designated Player (DP) winger De La Vega. Brought in to inject pace and creativity into the attack, De La Vega’s absence was felt immediately, as the Sounders lacked a consistent wide threat for much of the first half of the season. His fitness has been steadily improving, and a return in time for the playoffs could provide the team with a dynamic, game-changing weapon. His ability to stretch defenses and create opportunities in one-on-one situations could be crucial down the stretch.
The Sounders were also without two other vital players for large portions of the season: Albert Rusnák and João Paulo. Both players missed significant time due to injuries, leaving the midfield thin and disrupting the team’s rhythm. However, their recent return to full fitness has given Seattle a much-needed boost in terms of ball control, passing accuracy, and leadership on the field. João Paulo, in particular, brings a commanding presence in the midfield, dictating tempo and breaking up opposition attacks, while Rusnák’s creativity adds variety to Seattle’s offense.
Meanwhile, the Sounders have witnessed the rise of their younger stars. Paul Rothrock and Obed Vargas have been standout performers so far this season, injecting energy into the squad. Rothrock’s ability to press high and stretch the defense has provided an alternative attacking option, while Vargas has matured into a reliable midfielder, showing composure beyond his years.
The Sounders’ journey in the U.S. Open Cup and Leagues Cup helped the team gain momentum in the middle of the season. While neither competition ended with a trophy, deep runs in both tournaments provided valuable playing time for the squad, including their younger players. These performances helped build confidence and cohesion within the team. The Open Cup semifinal appearance, in particular, gave the Sounders belief that they can compete with any side when they’re firing on all cylinders.
One of the biggest question marks heading into the playoffs is the form of De La Vega. If fully healthy, his return to the lineup could dramatically shift Seattle’s offensive capabilities. His pace and creativity would add a new dimension to the attack, making Seattle less predictable and more difficult to defend against. His ability to take on defenders and create space for others could be the key to unlocking defenses in tight playoff matches.
Another potential game-changer is Giorgi Minoungou, a relatively recent addition to the Sounders’ first team. The 19-year-old winger from the Sounders' development team, Tacoma Defiance, is known for his speed and technical ability and has made a splash in limited appearances. A native of Côte d'Ivoire, Minoungou has worked his way up through the Sounders' development system and now finds himself on the brink of a larger role. Though he is still raw, his direct style of play could provide an unexpected spark, particularly in matches where the Sounders need to break through a stubborn defense or inject energy into the game late.
Raúl Ruidíaz, Seattle’s typically reliable goal-scoring machine, has had a frustrating season plagued by inconsistency and injury. While his quality is undeniable, Ruidíaz has struggled to find the back of the net with the regularity that Sounders fans have come to expect. With just eight goals to his name, his dip in form has raised questions about his ability to be an impact player come playoff time. However, Ruidíaz’s track record in the postseason speaks for itself, and if he can regain his sharpness, he could still be the match-winner Seattle needs in clutch moments.
Despite his inconsistent form this season, writing off Raúl Ruidíaz would be a mistake. The Peruvian striker has a history of delivering in big moments for Seattle. In his previous playoff runs, Ruidíaz has shown his ability to rise to the occasion, scoring crucial goals that have helped propel the Sounders deep into the postseason. If he can regain his sharpness and timing in front of goal, he could still play a pivotal role. Ruidíaz’s knack for finding space in the box and his lethal finishing in high-pressure situations could be exactly what the Sounders need to overcome strong opponents in the Western Conference.
For Seattle to make a deep playoff run, several factors will need to align. The return to form of De La Vega, along with maintaining the fitness of Rusnák, João Paulo, and Morris, will be critical in ensuring that the team’s midfield and attack can function at full strength. Additionally, Ruidíaz’s form will need to improve, and the contributions of the younger players like Rothrock and Vargas must continue to grow. The Sounders have shown the ability to grind out results in tough games, and this resilience will be key in navigating the playoffs, especially in tight, knockout situations.
System-wise, head coach Brian Schmetzer will need to continue to refine the team’s approach. Early in the season, the team experimented with formations, but now a 4-2-3-1 system that allows for flexibility in attack has been the go-to, with João Paulo and Vargas providing defensive cover and link-up play, while Rusnák operates as the creative engine. The return of De La Vega could give the Sounders more options to play wide, stretching defenses and creating more space for players like Morris to exploit.
The Western Conference is as tough as ever, with teams like LA Galaxy, LAFC, and Cascadia rivals Portland Timbers all vying for supremacy. However, if Seattle can maintain its health and key players perform to their potential, the Sounders have the quality and experience to make a deep run in the playoffs. Their balance of veteran leadership and youthful energy, combined with a tactically sound approach, makes them a serious contender.
