Nico Lodeiro says this is his last Sounders season

Prior to Seattle’s trip to face Nashville SC, a reliable source informed me that Nicolás Lodeiro would not be returning to the Seattle Sounders next year and although reasons were unclear, “there would not be any further talks to negotiate a different outcome.” 

During a candid conversation with me, the Uruguayan playmaker not only confirmed that information but also shed some light on the circumstances around it. He also added important context in order to understand how he went from a player expressing a desire to retire here and eventually moving into a coaching position to one who now plans to finish out his playing career elsewhere.

“My contract is up on Dec. 31, I haven’t received an offer and as far as I’m concerned now, I’m just not going to get one,” Lodeiro said with a nostalgic tone in his voice. He added that he understood this sort of situation is part being a professional footballer, even if that didn't make it any easier.

“Fans should know that I love the team, love the city but sometimes clubs have to make certain decisions and we have to respect them. The life of Nico and family continues, I want to keep playing at the highest level and that’s it.”