MLS association comes to an End

One of the longest standing associations in the MLS has come to an end after manager Sigi Schmid decided to majorly part company with Seattle Sounders.

Schmid is regarded as one of the best coaches in the MLS. Seattle Sounders have been able to keep hold of him for the last eight years. However, continued poor form in the 2016 MLS campaign has brought this relationship to an end. The club has revealed that assistant manager Brian Schmetzer will be appointed on an interim basis until a permanent solution is found. The separation appears to be amicable as Sounders Owner Adrian Hanauer thanked the manager for his invaluable contribution over the years.

One of the biggest achievements ofSchmid during this period will be qualifying for the MLS play-offs for the last seven consecutive years. He has also led Seattle Sounders to the 2014 MLS Supporters’ Shield and several other U.S. Open Cup titles. However, he leaves the club after having been part of 20 matches in the regular season. The club are currently ninth in the Western Conference table after having taken only 20 points. It is extremely difficult for the club to now finish in the play-offs. This season has been one of the worst in recent memory for Seattle Sounders.

“Sigi Schmid has been an invaluable member of Sounders FC since the club’s MLS launch, leading our organization to numerous trophies and a consistent winning culture for seven seasons. Sigi departs the club with our utmost respect and gratitude for his years of service. Ultimately the club and Sigi agreed that a change was needed at this time, but Sigi’s legacy will always be a part of our history. He has my sincere appreciation for all that he committed to our team and community,” said the club owner.