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MLS Seattle Sounders FC

Sounders FC Signs Defender Alex Roldan to New Contract

December 14, 2023 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Seattle Sounders FC News Release


SEATTLE, WASH. - Sounders FC today announced that it has signed defender Alex Roldan to a new three-year contract through the 2026 season, with a team option in 2027. Originally drafted by Seattle with the 22nd pick of the 2018 MLS SuperDraft out of Seattle University, Roldan has made 162 appearances across all competitions over six seasons for the Rave Green, including 35 in 2023.

"We are pleased to sign Alex to a new contract," said Sounders FC General Manager & Chief Soccer Officer Craig Waibel. "Since being drafted out of Seattle University in 2018, he has steadily improved over the course of his career to the point of being a cornerstone of our roster and one of the most consistent fullbacks in MLS. We are thrilled for him to remain in Seattle for the foreseeable future."

Following a collegiate career with the Redhawks, Roldan quickly became a featured player for Sounders FC, appearing in 19 regular-season matches (seven starts) as a rookie in 2018. After making a positional switch from midfield to right back following the 2019 season, he eventually won the job and started every postseason match during Seattle's run to the 2020 MLS Cup Final. The Pico Rivera, California native has been a mainstay in Brian Schmetzer's lineup ever since, starting at least 26 regular-season matches each from 2021-2023. A breakout 2022 campaign saw Roldan establish career highs with 32 appearances, 29 starts and seven assists in regular-season play, earning a start in the 2021 MLS All-Star Game alongside five of his teammates, including his brother Cristian.

"I am thrilled that Alex will continue his already impressive career with Sounders FC," said Sounders FC Head Coach Brian Schmetzer. "He has brought quality since his arrival, always doing what is asked of him and putting the team first. Already an integral member of our squad, I look forward to seeing what he can help us accomplish in the future."

Roldan most recently started 27 of 28 appearances in 2023 MLS regular-season play, recording one goal and four assists. He ranked fourth on the team with 23 interceptions, as well as fifth with 1,206 accurate passes and 234 duels won. A crucial member of a stingy Seattle backline, the Rave Green led MLS with 14 shutouts, while their 32 goals allowed were tied for the fewest across the league.

"I'm excited to continue my playing career here in Seattle," said Roldan. "It's been an honor to play for such a successful organization in a city that my family considers a second home. I will always cherish raising the 2019 MLS Cup and 2022 Concacaf Champions League trophy in front of our home fans, and I am confident this team has more special moments in the future. I am looking forward to being a Sounder for years to come."

The defender started every match during the club's historic run in the 2022 Concacaf Champions League, becoming the first MLS team to lift the continental trophy. He would go on to start for Sounders FC in its lone match at the FIFA 2023 Club World Cup against Egyptian side Al Ahly.

In international play, Roldan has 25 appearances (22 starts) for El Salvador in all competitions, including 11 appearances in FIFA 2022 World Cup qualifying, scoring a goal against Jamaica. He also scored in his first career international appearance against Guatemala at the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup.

Sounders FC finished the 2023 regular season second in the Western Conference with 53 points (14-9-11), advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals before falling 1-0 to LAFC. The club heads into the offseason with its sights set on the 2024 campaign, which kicks off early next year.

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