Is Nico Lodeiro Leaving Seattle Sounders? Why is Nico Lodeiro Leaving Seattle Sounders?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Oct 25, 2023
Is Nico Lodeiro Leaving Seattle Sounders?
Nicolas Lodeiro, the revered Uruguayan is potentially heading towards the end of his illustrious career with the Seattle Sounders FC. With his contract set to expire after the 2023 MLS season, Lodeiro expressed to Sounder At Heart reporter Niko Moreno that he hasn't received a new offer and doesn't anticipate receiving one. This revelation, coupled with his Instagram post stating that the recent game against St. Louis CITY SC was his final regular-season match with the club, suggests an imminent departure.
Despite the lack of official word from the Seattle Sounders' front office, including general manager and chief soccer officer Craig Waibel, and the coaching staff led by manager Brian Schmetzer, Lodeiro's resolve appears firm. He remains committed to giving his best until the end of his contract, promising to continue defending the Sounders' jersey with the same passion and dedication he's displayed throughout his tenure.
Lodeiro, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the Sounders' history, last extended his contract after the 2020 MLS season. His arrival at the club from Argentine powerhouse Boca Juniors in 2016, during Garth Lagerwey's tenure as the decision-maker, was hailed as a landmark signing, considered one of the most influential in the history of MLS.
Throughout his time with the Sounders, Lodeiro has been the central figure in the team's successes, contributing significantly to their two MLS Cup victories in 2016 and 2019, as well as their historic Concacaf Champions League triumph in 2022. His personal achievements include being named a 2019 MLS All-Star and earning a spot in the 2020 MLS Best XI. Additionally, he boasts impressive stats, having notched 41 goals and 80 assists in 191 regular-season games.
While the intricacies of contract negotiations are multifaceted and challenging decisions must be made by clubs, Lodeiro's disappointment is palpable. He reflects on the successes he's shared with the Seattle Sounders, expressing a sense of sadness at the potential end of his journey with the club. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Lodeiro's legacy at Seattle Sounders FC will ultimately be remembered.
Who is Nico Lodeiro?
Nicolás Lodeiro is a highly accomplished Uruguayan professional footballer renowned for his role as an attacking midfielder for the Major League Soccer (MLS) club Seattle Sounders FC and the Uruguay national team. Lodeiro's professional football career has taken him across various continents, including stints in Uruguay, the Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, and the United States.
Notably, he clinched the Eredivisie title during his time at Ajax, achieving this feat in both of the seasons he spent with the club. Additionally, Lodeiro secured the domestic double in 2015 with Boca Juniors in Argentina, along with triumphs at Nacional and Botafogo.
His contributions to the sport have been pivotal, especially during his tenure with the Seattle Sounders FC, where he played a significant role in securing the MLS Cup victories in 2016 and 2019. Furthermore, on the international stage, Lodeiro has been an integral part of the Uruguayan national team since 2009, earning an impressive 60 caps.
His participation spans two FIFA World Cups, four Copa América tournaments, the 2012 Summer Olympics, and the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, where Uruguay achieved a commendable fourth-place finish. He was also part of the squad that secured a fourth-place finish in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and triumphed in the 2011 Copa América.
Lodeiro's versatile and skillful play style, combined with his extensive experience across various footballing cultures, has solidified his reputation as a highly respected and influential figure in the world of soccer. His achievements both domestically and internationally underscore his significant contributions to the sport, showcasing his talent and dedication to the game.
Full name
Marcelo Nicolás Lodeiro Benítez
Date of birth
21 March 1989
Place of birth
Paysandú, Uruguay
Age
34
Height
1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
Position(s)
Attacking midfielder
Current team
Seattle Sounders FC
Number
10
Parents
Afonso Lodeiro and Isabel Lodeiro
Wife
Micaela
Children
3
Nico Lodeiro Career
Nicolás Lodeiro embarked on his football journey at a young age, honing his skills in the youth teams of local club Barrio Obrero. Not long after, his exceptional talent caught the attention of Daniel López, a local scout, who facilitated his transition to the youth team at Nacional Montevideo when Lodeiro was just 14 years old.
His professional career gained momentum when he made his debut for Nacional's first team at the age of 18 in a match against Fénix on 19 August 2007. Lodeiro's prowess became evident as he continued to secure more playing time, eventually making notable contributions in the Copa Libertadores, aiding Nacional in reaching the semi-finals. He was recognized by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) for his performances in the tournament.
In January 2010, Lodeiro signed a contract with the Dutch club AFC Ajax, joining fellow Uruguayans Bruno Silva and Luis Suárez. Despite facing an injury setback during the 2010/2011 Eredivisie season, he made significant contributions in the following season, assisting Ajax in securing their 31st league title.
His journey continued with stints at Botafogo, Corinthians, and Boca Juniors before making a move to the Major League Soccer (MLS) club Seattle Sounders FC in the summer of 2016. Lodeiro quickly established himself as a key player for the Sounders, playing a pivotal role in the team's MLS Cup victory in 2016, followed by appearances in subsequent finals.
On the international stage, Lodeiro made his senior debut for Uruguay in the CONCACAF-CONMEBOL 2010 World Cup Play-Off. He went on to participate in various FIFA World Cup and Copa América tournaments, contributing to Uruguay's successes. Notably, he was a crucial member of the team that won the 2011 Copa América.
Throughout his career, Lodeiro has demonstrated his versatility and skill, earning accolades and recognition for his contributions to both club and country. His journey stands as a testament to his dedication, talent, and resilience, solidifying his status as a respected and accomplished figure in the world of professional football.
Nico Lodeiro Family
Nicolás Lodeiro, the accomplished Uruguayan professional footballer, was born on March 21, 1989, in Uruguay, to his parents Afonso Lodeiro and Isabel Lodeiro. While specific information about his siblings is currently not publicly available, his family has played a significant role in shaping his remarkable journey in the world of football. Lodeiro's personal life is enriched by the presence of his family. He shares his life's adventures with his wife, Micaela, with whom he has built a meaningful and supportive partnership. Together, they have a son named Leandro and other two children, who undoubtedly add an extra layer of joy and purpose to Lodeiro's life beyond his successful career in soccer.
The support and love from his family have likely served as a source of motivation and stability throughout Lodeiro's career, helping him navigate the highs and lows of professional sports. Their presence underscores the importance of personal connections and a nurturing environment, providing a strong foundation for Lodeiro's continued success and achievements both on and off the field.
Nico Lodeiro Net Worth
Nico Lodeiro Net Worth is around $2 million. He primarily earns his income through his professional football career, playing for various clubs and national teams over the years. His contracts with clubs such as Seattle Sounders FC in the Major League Soccer (MLS), as well as his previous stints with teams like Nacional, Ajax, Botafogo, Corinthians, and Boca Juniors, have contributed significantly to his financial earnings. Additionally, he may receive income from endorsements, sponsorships, and other commercial ventures associated with his status as a prominent footballer.
Nico Lodeiro Age
At 34 years old, Nicolás Lodeiro stands as a seasoned veteran in the world of professional football. His impressive career trajectory reflects a journey marked by triumphs across various clubs and leagues, showcasing his enduring passion and skill.
Despite his age, Lodeiro continues to make significant contributions to the sport, demonstrating a remarkable level of consistency and dedication on the field. As he navigates the latter stages of his career, his wealth of experience and leadership qualities serve as a source of inspiration for both teammates and fans alike.
Nico Lodeiro Height
Nicolás Lodeiro stands at a height of 1.74 meters, which is equivalent to approximately 5 feet and 9 inches. This height places him within the average range for a professional footballer, allowing him to exhibit agility and control on the field. Despite not being among the tallest players, Lodeiro's skill, versatility, and on-field presence have contributed significantly to his success throughout his career.
Why is Nico Lodeiro Leaving Seattle Sounders?
Nicolás Lodeiro's departure from the Seattle Sounders seems imminent due to an apparent lack of a new contract offer, despite his pivotal contributions to the team's success over the years. While his dedication and achievements have solidified his status as a club legend, the absence of an agreement reflects the complexities of contract negotiations and the challenging decisions clubs must make. Lodeiro's disappointment stems from his significant impact and emotional investment in the club's journey, leading to a bittersweet departure from the Seattle Sounders.
Is Nico Lodeiro Leaving Seattle Sounders - FAQs
Nicolas Lodeiro, the revered Uruguayan is potentially heading towards the end of his illustrious career with the Seattle Sounders FC. With his contract set to expire after the 2023 MLS season, Lodeiro expressed to Sounder At Heart reporter Niko Moreno that he hasn't received a new offer and doesn't anticipate receiving one.
Nicolás Lodeiro's departure from the Seattle Sounders seems imminent due to an apparent lack of a new contract offer, despite his pivotal contributions to the team's success over the years.
Nicolás Lodeiro was born on March 21, 1989, in Paysandú, Uruguay.
Nicolás Lodeiro primarily plays as an attacking midfielder.
Nicolás Lodeiro has won two MLS Cups (2016, 2019) and a Concacaf Champions League title (2022) with the Seattle Sounders. He has also been recognized as a 2019 MLS All-Star and was included in the 2020 MLS Best XI.