Fredy Montero is back.
The club announced on Friday that Montero, a member of the 2009 inaugural MLS squad, has decided to extend his stay in Seattle, re-signing for the 2022 season. Montero returned to the Rave Green last year after almost a decade in South America, Europe and Vancouver, making an immediate impact on a Sounders side that finished second in the Western Conference on 60 points.
Brought into the team to add depth at forward as the team switched to a new two-forward system, Montero enjoyed an extremely productive season. Montero, who split time between operating as a second striker and an attacking midfielder, posted seven goals and six assists from 1,471 minutes of action. His contributions last year saw him move into sole ownership of the top spot in the club's all-time leading scorers list with 68 goals across all competitions.
“I think Fredy exceeded our expectations, if I’m honest,” General Manager & President of Soccer Garth Lagerwey told SoundersFC.com. “Maybe our expectations were too low – he had a couple of good years in Vancouver. He came in and did a really good job.”
Montero’s second stint in Seattle got off to a dream start in the club’s 2021 home opener. Entering as a second half substitute, the Colombia native marked his return to the Sounders by posting a goal and an assist in a 4-0 win over Minnesota United. That strong start set the foundation for a storybook season, including a two-goal performance in the Rave Green’s historic 6-2 win over the Portland Timbers at Providence Park.
Beyond the stat sheet, Montero shared his intimate knowledge of the club’s rich history with the young players in the squad, often taking time to teach them about what it means to be a Sounder. Between his attacking contributions and veteran presence in the locker room, Montero should play an important role going forward into 2022.
“He was productive – he scored goals and got assists,” noted Lagerwey. “That’s what you look for from forwards. So, hopefully it’s more of the same for another season with him.”
Montero’s signing brings the Sounders roster to 28 players.
Seattle will officially kick off the 2022 campaign on February 17 as they visit Honduran side F.C. Motagua in Leg One of the Concacaf Champions League before hosting Leg Two at Lumen Field on February 24.
