Seattle Sounders recognize their 2025 season isn't off to a start fans had envisioned. The team is not finding its footing in the midst of an unsteady season with only one win in six league games. And the answer, or at least some of it, may have arrived with an English accent and quick feet: Ryan Kent is the newest member of the Rave Green.
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The acquisition of the 28-year-old winger was officially confirmed by the team, a deal until the end of 2025 and with an option in 2026. Kent arrives as a free agent, having most recently played for Fenerbahçe in Turkey. And he arrives on a timeline when Seattle did not have a moment to spare.
Is Kent the man to repair it?
The 28-year-old English winger, byproduct of Liverpool and with a highlight experience at Rangers, arrives in the U.S. with a résumé that speaks for itself. He has appeared in 319 games at the senior level, has 38 goals, 64 assists, and a career that is filled with big-game performance.
Seattle general manager Craig Waibel didn't mince words: "Ryan is an elite-level winger with tremendous experience who has speed, creativity and a threatening scoring ability."
Seattle isn't getting off to a good beginning. One victory, two ties, and three defeats through six games. That's a season way out of the cellar for a team getting set to play in the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. The team requires a spark, some depth, and now more than ever, answers on the pitch.
Head coach Brian Schmetzer said straight out he thinks Kent is the answer: "He has genuine quality on the ball, he's good at beating players and stretching other back lines, which should add another dimension in the final third."
Arriola's injury created a gap and an obvious need
The season had just started, and Paul Arriola, one of Seattle's most important offseason acquisitions, was already done. Torn ACL. Six appearances and then, poof, out. A setback not just on the pitch, but emotionally and constructively. A veteran MLS and USMNT player who had come in with some expectations, now, regrettably, turns into a long-term loss.
That was the trigger. Seattle's front office moved fast and signed someone who, yes, could fill that gap.
Will Seattle's new signing make it in MLS?
Kent arrives unencumbered by the stigma of being "the savior." He is here to contribute, to replace lost space by Arriola, and help Seattle regain their rhythm. The expectation is that he'll be an important piece, but with enough time to adjust to the MLS model.
Adapting doesn't happen overnight. At 28, the English winger is also trying to win back the spotlight following a forgettable period at Fenerbahçe. Another perk? He has experience playing under high-pressure situations, wearing bulky jerseys, and understands what it is like to be in the spotlight. For a team that requires emotional balance, that kind of exposure can prove to be the turning point.