Sounders FC continues to deepen its squad with the latest addition of Paul Arriola.
“Paul is a very experienced, polished player,” said Head Coach Brian Schmetzer. “I have high hopes for him.”
Arriola joins the club on a three-year contract following a trade with FC Dallas after spending three seasons with the Texas side. His reasoning for the move was simple: he wanted to win trophies.
“I'm really excited just to be a part of a club with the tradition of winning,” said Arriola. “And having that level of standard, from the fans, to the organization, to the players in the locker room, to be a part of something like that is really special.”
The winger boasts years of experience competing with Liga MX side Club Tijuana, EFL Championship’s Swansea City, Major League Soccer’s D.C. United and FC Dallas, and the U.S. Men’s National Team.
His veteran presence combined with his familiarity with different playing styles adds another layer to the Sounders as the team gears up for a handful of domestic and international competitions in 2025.
“With the experience of playing in Mexico and playing for the national team and playing against these CONCACAF teams, you learn that the willingness to win is what drives everybody,” said Arriola. “At the end of the day, everyone should try their best to get the most out of the situation without crossing a certain line, and for me, that's kind of just how I've always been.”
Arriola’s ability to play multiple positions will also be beneficial to the squad. The Chula Vista native can play in various areas on the wing, depending on the formation. Whether it be as a wingback, a winger in the Sounders’ typical 4-3-2-1 formation, or as a fullback on either side, Arriola’s comfort on the flanks will allow the team to interchange systems more seamlessly.
“I feel really comfortable in many positions, just because of my tactical flexibility and being able to read the game and understand the game,” said Arriola. “And with so many good players on the team, I think it'll be even easier to be able to read and understand guys and tactically be on the same page.”
Arriola has left a lasting impression on every team he’s played for throughout his career. Since his professional debut in 2013, he’s racked up 51 goals and 38 assists at the club level and 10 goals in 50 caps with the U.S. Men’s National team.
2025 Concacaf Champions Cup
Sounders FC will face Antigua G.F.C. in Round One of the Concacaf Champions Cup. Match Two of the series will take place on the EQC pitch at Lumen Field on Feb. 26. Tickets are on sale for $20.25 now!
“He's going to put his body on the line for the group. I know a lot of guys said before they didn't like playing against him when he was with Dallas,” said forward Jordan Morris. “He got under people's skin a little bit, and to have that on our team now, I think, is super important.”
Arriola’s scrappiness comes from his willingness to do everything he can to support his teammates.
“I'm a hard worker. I'm a guy that works for the team, that wants to sacrifice, and I really do just want the best for all of us,” said Arriola. “I'm not a tall guy, by any means, but I try to be as physical as I can, I try to be an annoying pest that doesn't go away, someone that continually runs at you and I try not to back down from any type of challenge.”
He is more than ready to carry that demeanor into his new role at the Seattle Sounders.
“I think I can really help the team get to the next level and win championships this year.”
