Almost from the moment the extent of João Paulo’s injury was known, there’s been a question about how the Seattle Sounders plan to replace their team MVP. Each time the question has come up, though, the Sounders have insisted that they believe in the defensive midfielder depth that’s already on the roster.
The Sounders have mostly used Obed Vargas alongside Albert Rusnák, but have also featured Josh Atencio, Danny Leyva, Kelyn Rowe and Cristian Roldan in those spots. Jimmy Medranda and Alex Roldan have previously played as defensive midfielders, as well.
Asked about it again on Sounders Weekly, GM and President of Soccer Garth Lagerwey made the firmest statement yet about the team’s plans.