2018 Season Preview: Seattle Sounders

Predicted Starting XI

With Morris out injured the lineup for the opening day becomes fairly easy. Schmetzer will likely stick with experience and a known squad from last year’s playoffs. The one complication is Seattle’s second leg match in the CONCACAF Champions League just days ahead of the MLS opening fixture. The Sounders need a victory to advance, and a tough match for some of the starting XI could see them on the bench for Sunday’s match against LAFC.

By the time we hit May or June, expect to have seen multiple appearances, even starts, for Magnus Wolff Eikrem, Jordy Delem, Waylon Francis, Kim Kee-hee, Gustav Svensson, Harry Shipp. Henry Wingo and Alex Roldan look to be the two likeliest candidates for new players to break into the rotation.

2018 Predictions

Last year was an odd season for the Western Conference. After a long reign of dominance over the East, the West struggled across in cross-conference action and to establish clear lines between the top and the middle of the pack. The East still looks to hold the Cup favorites, but across the board teams in the West will be better than 2017. The LA Galaxy should improve, LAFC arrives, FC Dallas is expected to regain their form after a tough end to 2017.

A week ago I would have put Seattle as a clear top choice, with Portland close behind. However, the loss of Morris for the entire year will be difficult to cover for 34 matches. The Sounders will likely need to add a signing in the summer if players aren’t able to fill his void of link-up play, hustle and getting behind the defensive backline.

Next: Grading 2018 MLS Kits - Best and Worst 3

In the end, Seattle remains a favorite for the Western Conference, and should easily make the playoffs. From there it’s all about late-season form and knock-out soccer, something the Sounders and Brian Schmetzer have developed a talent for.

Predicted Finish: 2nd in the Western Conference.