Seattle Sounders fans have been dealt a major blow with the news that star forward Raul Ruidiaz will be out of action for the next 4-5 weeks due to a hamstring injury. The Peruvian international was forced off in the first half of Seattle’s 2-1 win over Portland Timbers last Saturday and subsequent scans have revealed the extent of the injury.
Ruidiaz has been an integral part of the Sounders’ attack since joining the club in 2018, scoring 33 goals in 57 appearances. He has been a key figure in the Sounders’ success over the past two seasons, helping them to back-to-back MLS Cup appearances and a 2019 MLS Cup victory.
The Sounders will now have to make do without their talismanic forward for the next month or so, with head coach Brian Schmetzer having to find a way to fill the void left by Ruidiaz. The Sounders have a number of options available to them, including signing a replacement or relying on the likes of Will Bruin and Jordan Morris to step up in Ruidiaz’s absence.
This is a major setback for the Sounders as they look to build on their impressive start to the season and make a push for the MLS Cup. Ruidiaz’s absence will be felt both on and off the field, with his leadership and experience being sorely missed in the dressing room.
The Sounders will be hoping that Ruidiaz can make a swift recovery and return to action as soon as possible. In the meantime, they will have to find a way to cope without their star forward and continue their push for the MLS Cup.
