After 13 years of playing, former Sounders FC midfielder Gonzalo Pineda announced his retirement Thursday in a press conference in his native Mexico. Pineda joined Seattle in 2014, making 56 MLS appearances over two seasons and recording four goals and nine assists.
“I always wanted to retire in a good moment in my career,” he said, according to ESPN Deportes. “Seattle Sounders gave me the opportunity to return at that moment, to be a starter again. I wanted to retire with a good taste in my mouth, it was a decision I took with my family, and I believe that it’s the right time to do it.”
So what's next for the 33-year-old? Although he's ending his playing career, he alluded to still remaining active with the game.
Pineda has been serving as an analyst for Univision's national broadcasts and will continue to pursue opportunities in broadcasting, but he expressed an interest in moving into coaching.
"He is a true student of the game," said head coach Sigi Schmid. "I wish him well as he embarks on the next phase of his journey."
With a bevy of international experience, including 44 career caps for the Mexican national team and four appearances with the team in the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, Pineda's options are open as he steps away from the role of athlete and transitions to a new career.
"We'd like to thank Gonzalo for his service to this club over the past two seasons," said GM and President of Soccer Garth Lagerwey. "We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors and look forward to seeing what comes next."
