Seattle Sounders: 5 takeaways from third week of preseason

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 16: Joao Paulo of Botafogo controls the ball during a match between Vasco da Gama and Botafogo as part of Brasileirao Series A 2019 at Sao Januario Stadium on October 16, 2019 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 16: Joao Paulo of Botafogo controls the ball during a match between Vasco da Gama and Botafogo as part of Brasileirao Series A 2019 at Sao Januario Stadium on October 16, 2019 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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Seattle Sounders
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 12: Seattle Sounders players and Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan (2nd from R) pose with the MLS Cup trophy during the Seattle Sounders MLS Cup victory parade and rally on November 12, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jim Bennett/Getty Images)

1. Sounders loan out Emanuel Cecchini

We’ve already mentioned how the defense has the most question marks, with only five defenders signed to the roster at the time of writing. It’s a different situation in midfield, especially after the addition of Joao Paulo.

As such, it came as little surprise to hear that Emanuel Cecchini is on the move. As reported by soundersfc.com, he has been loaned to Argentine club Union de Sante Fe until the end of 2020.

In reality, though, this move also doubles as a goodbye to the midfielder, who was loaned to the Sounders last August but made just four appearances, (including one start). Consider the words of General Manager & President of Soccer Garth Lagerwey:

"“We’d like to thank Emanuel for his time with the club last season in helping us win the MLS Cup title. We wish him the best going forward as he returns home to play in Argentina.”"

Do you have any additional takeaways from the Seattle Sounders’ third week of preseason? What’s your take on the signing of Paulo? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.