The player Léo Chú, of Seattle Sounders, has stood out as one of the key players in the club’s successful journey this Major League Soccer (MLS) season. His recent interview with MLS Multiplex revealed not only his remarkable on-field skills but also the resilience and determination that have helped him overcome significant challenges since joining the club.
Recalling his standout performance in a match against Kansas, where he secured four assists, Chú expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to shine. His confidence on the field has been evident since, reflecting in his consistent performance throughout the season.
“For me, remembering that game against Kansas is always good, you know? A game where I managed to get four assists, entering the club’s history as the first player to achieve four assists in a match. In memory, I am recalling those good moments, you know? This game for me was very important because I hadn’t been playing with such frequency and it was the first opportunity I had this year to stand out, and, thank God, after that game, I never left the team for the entire season. So, I think it was very important to make history and be called in the club’s history. And for my confidence this season as well”, said Léo Chú in an interview with MLS Multiplex.
The path to success was not easy for the player. Chú shared his experience of struggling to adapt to a foreign country and facing linguistic and cultural barriers. His journey of adaptation, however, was a story of resilience, resulting in solid personal relationships and a deep understanding of the league.
“Definitely, I think moving to another country and adapting to another league are tough things in life, especially since I came here alone. I had to adapt, get to know the city, understand the language, and for me, the first year was quite tough in terms of adaptation. The language, the league, the people, making friends. But I think… I’m sure that this year was much better. My son was born here, I built several true friendships here, outside of soccer and within soccer, and I adapted to the League. I think when we adapt off the field, everything becomes easier on the field, and that’s what happened this year. Thank God.”
In addition to his offensive ability, Chú emphasized his defensive evolution, highlighting the importance of balancing his responsibilities on the field. His recognition of the need to become a more complete player underscores his dedication to improving his skills in all areas of the game.
“Yes, I think I had to evolve a lot in terms of marking, defensively, and learn many things here in the League, you know? Because when I arrived here, I was more of a… just a technical player, I only started to attack and didn’t defend as much. And our team and the League demand many players who defend and attack. It was over time that I matured and today, thank God, I can… understand the game more, mark and attack. This, for sure, was a good thing for me and for my career, not only for the time I will spend here, I mean for my career in general.”
The positive influence of veteran players, such as Nicolás Lodeiro and Jordan Morris, also did not go unnoticed. Chú highlighted how their guidance contributed to his personal and professional development, emphasizing the importance of mutual support within the team.
“I think it’s very important, older players always help us. In Grêmio, I had… I was the youngest in Grêmio, I was the youngest in Ceará before coming here. And I had the help of many older players, Raffinha, Douglas Costa, in Ceará Luiz Otávio, Ricardinho. And players who helped me a lot before I got here. So always, thank God, I was a guy who received advice from very victorious players. And when I got here, it was no different, you know? Lodeiro, Paulo, Fred Monteiro, Jordan, right? These guys helped me a lot in my adaptation so that I could perform in the best possible way. And I think when we have an open mind to listen to guys who have already won a lot in football and can help you, it’s a good start to start evolving.”
The role of coach Brian Schmetzer in Chú’s journey was also emphasized. His ability to help Chú adapt to a different style of play, resulting in notable development, highlights the importance of strong and experienced leadership within the team.
“It’s very important, right? He’s only the second coach in the history of the club. He’s been working at the club for about 8 years. He’s a leader within the group, within the club, within the city. And I have evolved a lot with him, man. It was as I mentioned, I came here with a totally different style of play from what I have today. And much of it is thanks to him, you know? I managed to make myself evolve even though I didn’t want to change my style. Today I understand that… it was my best way as a player. So, that was very important.”
While Chú expresses gratitude for the current season, his aspirations for the future remain open. His determination to live in the present moment and his commitment to contribute to the continued success of Seattle Sounders reflect his focused and ambitious mentality.
“I am very happy with the season I’ve been having, that I’ve been performing. I want to finish it in the best possible way. But I am already grateful for the season, I always want more and I continue to strive to end it in the best possible way. And for the future, man, I don’t know. I just think about living today, working hard and leaving for the future… seeing what will happen next year, in the coming years whether I will stay here, whether I will go somewhere else. It’s just that today I am very happy here, I have my family, I have my friends, and I am where I want to be, I am where I want to stay. Here in the last few years, we have always been getting closer, always reaching the finals. So, I’m sure we will go far in this tournament because we have a strong team, a team that has been playing together for a long time. I think it has everything to be a great journey. And, individually, I intend to finish the year in the best possible way, to end as it began, a very regular season. I think if it ends the same way it started and has been, it will be wonderful for me”, said Léo Chú in an interview with MLS Multiplex.
The story of Léo Chú is an inspiring narrative of perseverance and ambition, which not only highlights his ability on the field but also his ability to overcome personal and professional adversities. With his positive attitude and unwavering commitment, Chú is setting an inspiring example for young players and soccer fans around the world.