Nicolás Lodeiro Bids Farewell to Seattle Sounders with Pride and Confidence
ICARO Media Group
Seattle, [Date] - In a bittersweet moment for both Nicolás Lodeiro and the Seattle Sounders, the Uruguayan midfielder expressed his belief that he played his final game for the club during their Western Conference semifinal loss to LAFC. With an illustrious eight-season tenure with the Sounders, Lodeiro's departure marks the end of an era for the team.
Despite coming off the bench, Lodeiro showcased his trademark energy and determination during the match, attempting a commendable 38 passes in the limited time he was on the field. However, the efforts fell short in prolonging the Sounders' season, resulting in feelings of sadness for both Lodeiro and the fans.
Reflecting on his time with the club, Lodeiro addressed the media in the postgame locker room, revealing, "After many years with the club, it's sad," he said. "First, because we lost and the team deserved a little bit better, and so did the fans. We wanted to win tonight. At some point, I feel sad, too, because it was my last game in front of these beautiful fans."
Despite the somber atmosphere, Lodeiro's demeanor remained gracious and optimistic throughout the press conference. Smiling and patiently answering questions for over 10 minutes, he displayed no signs of bitterness over his impending departure.
Lodeiro's time with the Sounders was undeniably successful. In his eight seasons, the team celebrated two MLS Cups, secured two Western Conference trophies, and became the first MLS side to capture the Concacaf Champions League title. With an impressive tally of 15 playoff rounds won, Lodeiro's contributions to the team's achievements will be forever etched in the Sounders' record books, including his remarkable number of assists.
When asked about his legacy, the Uruguayan midfielder prioritized the relationships he forged during his time in Seattle. "I feel good and satisfied," Lodeiro said. "Separate the trophies and the winning, what's more important are the people who liked me as a person... That's more important than my titles. I'm satisfied with my time here."
While Lodeiro admitted that he has not given much thought to his future, he emphasized that retirement was not on the horizon. "I haven't really thought about my future, but for sure I want to play," he confidently declared. Expressing his hunger for more trophies, his desire to compete remains ingrained in his DNA.
As Lodeiro bids farewell to Seattle, he looks ahead to new challenges and opportunities. "I'm open. I'm confident in my style, and it's time to wait to see what happens here or another country," he stated. With no concrete plans in place, Lodeiro's focus remains on listening and waiting for the right opportunity to arise.
While the Sounders say goodbye to a key figure in their success, Lodeiro's departure symbolizes the end of a chapter filled with accomplishments and cherished memories. With his head held high, Nicolás Lodeiro departs Seattle as a beloved figure and leaves behind a lasting impact on the Sounders' franchise.