During Seattle Sounders' loss to Necaxa, Young DP Pedro de la Vega was removed in the 34th minute. During his post-match comments, Head Coach Brian Schmetzer indicated that Pedro was removed due to a groin injury.
Schmetzer further clarified de la Vega's timeline during his weekly appearance with Sports Radio KJR.
“Yeah, he will be out a couple weeks. It’s not as bad as we suspected. He had the MRI yesterday and it's probably a two-week injury. One of those smaller muscles in his abductor. He should be fine.”
The attacking midfielder has struggled with injury concerns throughout the season, starting just five matches in all competitions, playing 304 total minutes. His previous injuries have been to hamstrings. A two-week injury would put him in line to return to some amount of availability during the potential double-game week featuring the Leagues Cup semis, final and/or Seattle's regular season match against Minnesota United on August 24 (if they do not make the cup final).
Raúl Ruidíaz back for Open Cup semi?
Schmetzer also updated the status of DP forward Raúl Ruidíaz, who suffered a contact injury in the Leagues Cup win over Minnesota United.
“No, not for Thursday, but I would love to have Raul back for Minnesota and then the Open Cup game against LAFC, that would be ideal.”
Considering the potential match density in late August, getting both players back – even in limited capacity – will impact the ability of Seattle to win trophies and to be in the hunt for home field advantage in the MLS Cup playoffs.
Notes
- João Paulo is not in concussion protocol after taking a ball to the face.
- Josh Atencio has returned from Paris 2024 and will be available for selection.
- Schmetzer said he would answer the phone if US Soccer called about the USMNT coaching vacancy.
- Thursday's Leagues Cup Round of 32 match hosting LA Galaxy is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 pm PDT. Plenty of seats are still available.
- If Seattle wins they would host the winner of Vancouver Whitecaps v. UNAM Pumas who play tonight.
