Paul Arriola Suffers Torn ACL, Facing Long Recovery

Seattle Sounders FC confirmed on Friday that winger Paul Arriola has sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee. This injury occurred during the team’s recent Concacaf Champions Cup match against Cruz Azul, which ended in a disappointing 4-1 defeat for Seattle.

During the match, which took place on Tuesday, the 30-year-old player was carried off the field just before halftime, raising immediate concern regarding the severity of his injury. The club’s announcement followed an assessment confirming the ACL tear, which is anticipated to require a lengthy recovery period, likely sidelining Arriola for the entirety of the 2025 season.

Impact on the Team

The loss of Arriola is significant for the Sounders, who were optimistic about his contributions following his acquisition from FC Dallas just two months ago. Since joining the team, he has recorded two goals in seven appearances, showcasing his potential impact on the squad.

Adding to the Sounders’ woes, the injury crisis is not limited to Arriola. Fellow forwards Jordan Morris and Pedro de la Vega are also set for absences of four to six weeks due to hamstring and quad injuries, respectively. This accumulation of injuries poses a challenge for the club as they aim to remain competitive in the league.

Background on Paul Arriola

Before joining the Sounders, Arriola earned a reputation as a reliable player in Major League Soccer (MLS), having previously played for Tijuana and D.C. United. Additionally, he is a seasoned member of the United States men’s national team, amassing 50 caps and contributing 10 goals over his international career.

The Seattle Sounders have publicly expressed their support for Arriola as he embarks on his recovery journey. The club tweeted, “Best wishes to Paul Arriola as he begins his recovery after suffering a torn ACL v. Cruz Azul.”