S

Seattle Sounders FC

Professional soccer club in MLS

Manager, Marketing Automation and Operations

Full-TimeUpdated on 10/23/2026
$110k - $160k+ 401(k) match
Senior
Renton, WA, USA
In Person
Growth & MarketingGrowth Marketing
No H1B Sponsorship

About the job

Requirements
  • At least 5 years of experience in marketing operations and automation, including at least 3 years administering a marketing automation platform.
  • Experience integrating a marketing automation platform with a customer relationship management system, including lead management, lead scoring, and bidirectional data synchronization.
  • Hands-on experience with email deliverability, including domain authentication (SPF, DKIM, and DMARC) and IP warming.
  • Experience running automation for two brands in one instance.
  • A track record of running marketing operations work through AI agents and automation, with the context, review steps, and data guardrails to do so safely.
  • Strong strategic and analytical skills to interpret campaign and revenue data and turn it into actionable recommendations.
  • Strong judgment in prioritizing work, deciding when to act or seek input, and balancing speed against risk to fans, data, and the brand.
  • Ability to take personal ownership of launched work, document it, monitor journeys and automations, and fix them when they break.
  • Ability to make sound, timely decisions under pressure when a critical send, deliverability issue, or data problem needs attention.
  • Ability to communicate technical decisions and processes orally and in writing in non-technical language, adjusting to the audience.
  • Ability to facilitate own local travel.
  • Must reside within Washington state upon date of hire.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the primary owner and administrator of the clubs' marketing automation platform for Sounders FC and Reign FC, including workspace and project structure, user roles and permissions, data schema, API keys, and integration configuration.
  • Own platform health and roadmap, including audits, troubleshooting, feature adoption, and management of the platform vendor and implementation partners.
  • Partner with the migration lead, implementation partner, and platform vendor through the final stages of the transition from Salesforce Marketing Cloud, validate migrated audiences, journeys, and consent records during the parallel-run period, and lead the post-launch build-out.
  • Set and enforce campaign production and governance standards across both brands, including segmentation, setup, quality assurance, launch, naming conventions, permission management, audit trails, and the campaign calendar; serve as the escalation point for complex or revenue-critical sends.
  • Partner with Marketing Managers and the Lifecycle Marketing team to build and deliver targeted acquisition, retention, and member programs, and train and enable marketers to build campaigns independently, including responsible use of platform AI and automation features, through documentation, onboarding, and certification paths.
  • Own email deliverability for both clubs, including sending domain and IP strategy, separate sender reputations per club, domain authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and BIMI), IP warming, and ongoing monitoring and remediation.
  • Serve as the subject matter expert for GDPR, CCPA, CAN-SPAM, and other applicable privacy regulations, owning compliance workflows, consent management, and suppression strategies across both clubs.
  • Design, build, and maintain cross-channel journeys across email, SMS, mobile push, in-app messaging, and paid media audiences, including frequency and suppression rules coordinated with the Braze instance bundled with Jump for ticketing messages.
  • Partner with Business Intelligence to define platform data requirements, including the Amperity fan ID as the primary profile key, event and attribute schemas, inbound data feeds, and engagement data returned to the data warehouse for reporting.
  • Own data quality within the platform and partner with Business Intelligence to resolve upstream issues across sources such as Jump, Salesforce, Shopify, and Fanatics.
  • Lead experimentation and optimization programs, including A/B and multivariate testing, holdout groups, and incrementality measurement, and translate results into insights and recommendations for Marketing Managers.
  • Build and maintain the lifecycle stage model and lead-scoring logic in the platform, as defined by Lifecycle Marketing in partnership with Ticketing, including MQL definitions, score decay, routing and writeback to Salesforce CRM, and suppression of fans in active sales conversations.
  • Own recurring weekly, monthly, and quarterly campaign and journey performance reporting that connects programs to ticket and membership revenue, renewals, and lifecycle stage movement, with views for each club and consolidated executive reporting.
  • Configure, govern, and measure AI and machine-learning features, such as send-time optimization, predictive scoring, and generative copy assistance, with brand guardrails and human approval in place; evaluate technologies that integrate with the platform to identify automation opportunities and reduce tool overlap.
  • Use AI agents for routine campaign production work, maintain the context they rely on, and review output before it reaches fans.
Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with Salesforce CRM.
  • Experience with lifecycle models and audience segmentation inside a marketing automation platform.
  • Experience with Customer.io, Salesforce Marketing Cloud, or Braze.
  • Experience with customer data platforms such as Amperity.
  • Experience with email testing tools, Google Analytics, and business intelligence tools such as Tableau.
  • Experience in sports or live events.

About the company

S

Seattle Sounders FC

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Website

Seattle Sounders FC is a professional soccer club that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as part of the Western Conference. It operates by hosting regular-season and cup matches at Lumen Field in Seattle, drawing fans to games, selling tickets, securing sponsorships, and offering team merchandise. The club generates revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, and merchandise, while engaging a large fanbase known as the Emerald City Supporters. The team’s on-field product is the performance of its players during MLS matches and cup competitions, delivered through the club’s coaching staff and front office. Seattle Sounders FC stands out with multiple MLS Cup championships (2016 and 2019) and a strong local following, which helps differentiate it from other clubs. The club’s goal is to win championships, grow its fanbase, and sustain long-term success on and off the field by delivering competitive play, a strong game-day experience, and community engagement.

Company Size

201-500

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Renton, Washington

Founded

2009

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Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • September 3, 2026 Caden Clark adds cheap U22 upside and flexibility.
  • May 28, 2026 Youth Soccer Match Pass targets 90,000 players and families.
  • March 27, 2026 Minoungou sale brought $2 million GAM for roster moves.

What critics are saying

  • October 30, 2025 capital raise admits ownership needs outside money for growth.
  • Jump's 2027 migration risks ticketing failures, data loss, and fan churn.
  • If Longacres stadium dies, Sounders stay tenants forever, capping valuation and control.

What makes Seattle Sounders FC unique

  • Seattle won every major U.S. soccer competition by August 2026.
  • Jump's 2027 rollout gives Sounders direct-to-fan control over Lumen Field.
  • Starbucks and Washington Youth Soccer anchor a uniquely deep local pipeline.

Help us improve and share your feedback! Did you find this helpful?

Benefits

  • Health Insurance
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) Company Match
  • Inclusive Parental Leave
  • Exclusive Perks
  • Continuous Growth Opportunities

Growth & Insights and Company News

6 month growth

7%

1 year growth

8%

2 year growth

8%
Seattle Sounders FC
Sep 3rd, 2026
Sounders FC acquires midfielder Caden Clark from D.C. United.

Sounders FC acquires midfielder Caden Clark from D.C. United. Sounders FC Communications Thursday, Sep 3, 2026, 09:29 AM RENTON, WASH. - Sounders FC today announced that it has acquired midfielder Caden Clarkfrom D.C. United in exchange for Seattle's natural Second Round pick in the 2028 MLS SuperDraft. As part of the trade, which was completed prior to the close of MLS' Secondary Transfer Window, Seattle retains Clark's U-22 roster designation, while D.C. United retains the player's discretionary costs above the U-22 salary budget charge for 2026. D.C. United also receives $50,000 in 2027 General Allocation Money if Clark remains on Sounders FC's roster in 2027. "Caden is a talented young player who already has significant experience in our league and has shown the ability to impact games in different attacking roles," said Sounders FC General Manager & Chief Soccer Officer Craig Waibel. "We believe there is still plenty of room for him to grow, and we're looking forward to bringing him into our environment and seeing how he can contribute to our group." Clark, 23, joins Seattle after spending the past year with D.C. United, who acquired him from CF Montréal in August of 2025. The Medina, Minnesota native has seven MLS appearances this season after appearing in 30 total league matches in 2025, recording six assists. He originally joined Montréal from Minnesota United FC in August 2024, tallying four goals and 10 assists in 35 regular-season appearances for the Canadian side. "I'm excited to welcome Caden to Seattle and start working with him," said Sounders FC Head Coach Brian Schmetzer. "He's a young player who has been around the league for a number of years and has some qualities that can help us in the attack. Our job is to get him comfortable within the group, put him in positions to succeed and help him continue developing as a player." Clark began his professional career with Red Bull New York in 2020, making an immediate impact with goals in each of his first two MLS appearances. He went on to record nine goals and seven assists in 47 MLS appearances with the club, two of which were on loan after signing with Red Bull Leipzig German Bundesliga in 2021. Clark later spent time on loan with Danish side Vendsyssel FF before returning to MLS with Minnesota ahead of the 2024 season. On the international stage, Clark has represented the United States at both the youth and senior levels. He helped the U.S. win the 2022 Concacaf U-20 Championship before making his senior international debut in a 3-1 friendly win over Venezuela on January 18, 2025, recording an assist. Clark scored his first senior international goal four days later in a 3-0 victory over Costa Rica. Following a 2-2 draw with Chicago Fire FC on Saturday, Sounders FC (7-9-5, 26 points) hosts Red Bull New York (7-10-5, 26 points) on Saturday, September 5 on the Emerald Queen Casino Pitch at Lumen Field (5:30 p.m. PT / Apple TV, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360 AM). TRANSACTION: Sounders FC acquires midfielder Caden Clark from D.C. United in exchange for Seattle's natural Second Round pick in the 2028 MLS SuperDraft on September 2, 2026. Seattle retains Clark's U-22 roster designation, while D.C. United retains the player's discretionary costs above the U-22 salary budget charge for 2026. D.C. United receives $50,000 in 2027 Allocation Money if Clark remains on Sounders FC's roster in 2027. Full Name: Caden Clark Position: Midfielder Height: 5-11 Weight: 161 Hometown: Wayzata, Minnesota Date of Birth: May 27, 2003 in Medina, Minnesota Nationality: United States Acquired: Acquired via trade from D.C. United on September 3, 2026 Previous Clubs: D.C. United (2025-2026), CF Montréal (2024-2025), Minnesota United FC (2024), Vendsyssel FF (2023, loan), RB Leipzig (2022-2023), Red Bull New York (2020-2022) Sounders FC Communications

Seattle Sounders FC
May 28th, 2026
Sounders FC, Starbucks and Washington Youth Soccer launch Washington Youth Soccer Match Pass to celebrate the next generation of soccer across the Evergreen State.

Sounders FC, Starbucks and Washington Youth Soccer launch Washington Youth Soccer Match Pass to celebrate the next generation of soccer across the Evergreen State. Sounders FC communications. Thursday, May 28, 2026, 03:59 PM RENTON, WASH. - Sounders FC, in partnership with Starbucks and Washington Youth Soccer, today announced the launch of the Washington Youth Soccer Match Pass, a first-of-its-kind statewide initiative designed to inspire the next generation of young athletes across the Evergreen State. As the sport reaches a defining moment across North America, the Washington Youth Soccer Match Pass invites every registered Washington Youth Soccer athlete aged 18 and under to receive a complimentary ticket to select home matches this season, connecting young players and their families across Washington to the heart of Sounders FC matchdays and Pacific Northwest soccer culture. More than a ticket initiative, the Washington Youth Soccer Match Pass is rooted in a shared belief that soccer belongs to everyone who plays it. With over 90,000 registered Washington Youth Soccer athletes eligible for the program - which includes access to additional discounted tickets for friends and family members - the Washington Youth Soccer Match Pass celebrates those that continue to shape the sport's strong foundation across the state. Coming at a significant moment for soccer in the region, with Seattle hosting six matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026(TM) this summer, Sounders FC and its partners are joining together to invest in the players, families, clubs and communities that fuel the game year-round. "The Washington Youth Soccer Match Pass is about recognizing that every young player across Washington is already part of the story of this club," said Sounders FC President of Business Operations Hugh Weber. "The Sounders are not just Seattle's club - it's Washington's soccer club. Many of the players who wear our crest today, including Jordan Morris, Paul Rothrock and Jackson Ragen, grew up playing in Washington Youth Soccer. Their journeys are proof that the connection between local soccer communities and Sounders FC is real, lasting and deeply rooted." The program is available for the Rave Green's final 12 MLS regular-season and Leagues Cup home matches of the 2026 campaign, beginning with Seattle's first contest after the 2026 FIFA World Cup break against archrival Portland Timbers on Thursday, July 16 (7:30 p.m. PT / Apple TV, FS1, iHeartMedia Seattle, El Rey 1360 AM). Eligible Washington Youth Soccer athletes can access the offer through a **dedicated online portal** using their WYS Player ID. With Seattle as its hometown, Starbucks is deeply rooted in communities across Washington and beyond. Starbucks serves as the initiative's founding partner to make professional soccer more accessible for families throughout the season. A longtime Sounders FC partner, Starbucks joins the club in its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for youth athletes and their families across Washington, reinforcing shared values of community, connection and access to the game. "We are proud to partner with Sounders FC and Washington Youth Soccer to expand our support for youth soccer across our hometown of Seattle and communities across Washington," said Starbucks Senior Vice President of Global Marketing Erin Silvoy. "At Starbucks, we believe sports are a powerful force for connection, that brings people together through shared rituals and moments of joy. By helping more youth experience soccer first-hand, we hope to inspire the next generation while supporting the athletes, coaches and families who make our communities stronger." Founded in 1961, Washington Youth Soccer is one of the region's leading youth sports organizations, helping shape generations of players and families through recreational and competitive opportunities across the state for more than 60 years. Affiliated with U.S. Youth Soccer, U.S. Soccer and FIFA, Washington Youth Soccer works alongside nearly 200 member clubs and local associations to help grow and strengthen the game at every level, creating accessible pathways and enriching experiences for youth athletes and their families throughout Washington. "We see this partnership as a catalyst to inspire the next generation of youth soccer players," said Washington Youth Soccer Executive Director Roger Levesque. "There is something unique about attending a Sounders match at Lumen Field - the sights, sounds and world-class soccer all contribute to a goose bump-inducing experience. But the true inspiration comes from living the highs and lows of a match together, alongside family, friends and thousands of fans, who for 90 minutes, are all on the same team. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with Sounders FC and Starbucks to bring this experience and the joy of soccer to the Washington Youth Soccer community." MLS is currently amid an extended break from play for the FIFA World Cup 2026(TM), with Seattle returning to action on Thursday, July 16 against the Portland Timbers on the Emerald Queen Casino Pitch at Lumen Field (7:30 p.m. PT / Apple TV, iHeartMedia Seattle, El Rey 1360 AM). ABOUT SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC Born in 1974 and a member of Major League Soccer since 2009, Seattle Sounders FC is one of North America's leading professional soccer organizations. The club has captured nine major trophies since its inaugural MLS season, and following its Leagues Cup victory in 2025, Seattle became the first team in U.S. soccer history to win every major competition (Concacaf Champions Cup, MLS Cup, Supporters' Shield, U.S. Open Cup, Leagues Cup). Since the club's MLS debut, Sounders fans have set the standard for soccer support in North America, leading the league in attendance for eight-consecutive seasons (2009-2016), routinely ranking in the global top 30 among all professional clubs and never finishing outside of MLS' top three. ABOUT STARBUCKS Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to responsibly sourcing and roasting hi-quality arabica coffee. Today, with a global footprint of more than 41,000 company-operated and licensed coffeehouses and a growing presence in consumer-packaged goods, we are the world's premier purveyor of specialty coffee. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or www.starbucks.com. ABOUT WASHINGTON YOUTH SOCCER Washington Youth Soccer (WYS) is the largest youth sports organization in Washington State, serving more than 90,000 players through a network of over 200 member associations and clubs statewide. WYS is committed to fostering the physical, mental, and emotional growth of youth through the game of soccer by creating opportunities for players of all backgrounds and ability levels to learn, compete, and thrive. Through leagues, tournaments, player development programs, coaching education, community partnerships, and initiatives supported by the Washington Youth Soccer Foundation, WYS works to grow the game and create meaningful experiences for young athletes across Washington.

Seattle Sounders FC
Apr 2nd, 2026
Sounders FC brings back "first Match On Us" Fan Engagement initiative for 2026 season, presented by Columbia Bank.

Sounders FC brings back "first Match On Us" Fan Engagement initiative for 2026 season, presented by Columbia Bank. Sounders FC Communications Thursday, Apr 2, 2026, 11:19 AM RENTON, WASH. - Sounders FC today announced the return of its "First Match On Us" initiative for the 2026 Major League Soccer season, presented by Columbia Bank. Following a successful debut in 2025 that saw tens thousands of first-time attendees to Lumen Field, the innovative fan engagement program once again invites individuals who have never attended a Sounders FC match to experience a home fixture at no cost, with 13 matches included on this year's expanded slate. With the world's game descending on Seattle this summer as a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city, "First Match On Us" reinforces the club's commitment to making the sport more accessible, inviting new fans to be part of a landmark moment for soccer in the region. In partnership with Columbia Bank and additional supporting partners, Sounders FC has expanded the program to 13 matches in 2026, increasing opportunities for anyone to attend their first-ever Sounders match at no cost, complete with a pair of tickets, a specially designed welcome experience, free gift and more. The 2026 edition of the program kicks off on Saturday, April 18 as the Rave Green host St. Louis CITY SC on the Emerald Queen Casino Pitch at Lumen Field (7:30 p.m. PT / Apple TV, iHeartMedia Seattle, El Rey 12360 AM). Additional matches throughout the season are available on a rolling basis, with fans able to learn more about the program HERE. "We're proud to bring 'First Match On Us' back for a second season after the strong response we saw in 2025," said Sounders FC President of Business Operations Hugh Weber. "This initiative speaks directly to our responsibility as a club to grow the game and connect with our community in meaningful ways. We want to remove barriers and give people a clear opportunity to experience what makes Sounders FC special. We're excited to build on last year's momentum and continue welcoming new fans into our soccer community alongside Columbia Bank." Originally launched last year, "First Match On Us" was created to break down barriers to entry and introduce new fans to one of Major League Soccer's most celebrated matchday environments. By removing the cost of admission and simplifying the ticketing process, the program serves as an open invitation for those who have yet to experience the passion, energy and community that define Sounders FC. The program saw strong engagement during its inaugural season, welcoming tens of thousands of first-time attendees to Lumen Field and creating lasting connections between the club and new members of the Seattle soccer community. Feedback from participants highlighted the unique atmosphere inside the stadium, as well as the sense of belonging fostered through shared experiences with fellow supporters. Rooted in the club's belief that soccer is a unifying force across the Pacific Northwest, the initiative reflects Sounders FC's ongoing commitment to fostering a sense of belonging for fans of all backgrounds. Whether someone is new to the region, exploring the sport for the first time or looking for a shared experience with family and friends, "First Match On Us" is designed to create a welcoming and inclusive entry point into the club's vibrant supporter culture. Participants can register online to determine eligibility, with the program reserved exclusively for individuals who have never attended a Sounders FC home match. Once registered, eligible fans receive a text message granting access to a selection platform, where they can choose from available matches and reserve up to two complimentary tickets. A confirmation step closer to matchday ensures attendance, after which seats are automatically assigned and tickets are delivered via the Sounders FC App, Ticketmaster App or Ticketmaster Account Manager portal, providing a seamless and user-friendly experience. "This program is centered on creating memorable first experiences and helping people feel part of something bigger," said Chief Impact and Fan Engagement Officer Ashley Fosberg. "We saw in 2025 how a single match can spark a connection, whether it's the atmosphere at Lumen Field or the shared energy with other supporters. With 2026 set to be a historic year for Seattle as the global soccer community arrives for the FIFA World Cup, we have a unique opportunity to introduce even more people to Sounders FC and inspire them to come back again." In addition to tickets, "First Match On Us" provides a curated introduction to Sounders FC and its matchday traditions. As Seattle prepares to take center stage as a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city, the program plays an important role in making the sport more accessible and approachable for new fans to experience the global game at a local level, free of cost. First-time attendees receive a commemorative scarf and access to dedicated in-stadium touchpoints, including photo opportunities and informational resources designed to help them navigate the venue, understand supporter culture and fully engage with the experience from kickoff to final whistle. From the moment fans arrive at Lumen Field, they are immersed in an atmosphere that is uniquely Seattle, highlighted by the club's passionate supporter groups, the iconic "March to the Match" and a matchday experience that blends soccer tradition with the energy of the city. "First Match On Us" is designed to ensure that new attendees feel connected to those traditions, creating a lasting impression that extends well beyond a single match. Single-match tickets are currently available, along with a variety of ways to become a part of the Rave Green family, including Season Memberships, Partial Packs and Flex Memberships. Theme Matches & Promotional Offers for the 2026 season are also on sale, giving fans access to exclusive perks such as limited-edition giveaways, ticket bundles and value-packed deals. Sounders FC is currently accepting Group Ticket deposits, with groups of 10 or more able to receive a custom matchday experience. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets or membership packages without delay to ensure the best possible seating. Full ticketing information can be found at SoundersFC.com/Tickets. Sounders FC Communications

Colorado Rapids
Mar 27th, 2026
Colorado Rapids acquire winger Georgi Minoungou from Seattle Sounders FC.

Colorado Rapids acquire winger Georgi Minoungou from Seattle Sounders FC. Friday, Mar 27, 2026, 10:00 AM COMMERCE CITY, Colo. - The Colorado Rapids announced today the club has acquired winger Georgi Minoungou from Seattle Sounders FC in exchange for $2,000,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM), split between the 2026 and 2027 seasons ($1,000,000 in 2026 and $1,000,000 in 2027). The transaction was completed prior to the close of the MLS Primary Transfer Window. Seattle may retain a sell-on percentage. "We are excited to welcome Georgi to the club," said Colorado Rapids Sporting Director Fran Taylor. "He's an explosive winger who brings the ability to consistently win 1v1 situations. There are few players like him in MLS, and we believe he's a strong fit for how we want to play." Minoungou, 23, has spent the last two seasons with Seattle, making 34 appearances across all competitions, including MLS regular season, MLS Cup Playoffs, Concacaf Champions Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and Leagues Cup. In that time, the forward has logged three goals and seven assists in 1,824 minutes of play. Minoungou played a role in Seattle's Leagues Cup 2025 championship campaign, featuring in three matches and recording a goal and an assist. "Georgi is an exciting addition for us as we continue to build around our group to compete across multiple competitions," said Rapids Head Coach Matt Wells. "He brings speed, attacking intent and the ability to stretch defenses, which is critical in how we want to play. His willingness to take players on and create in wide areas will add another dimension to our attack, and we're looking forward to integrating him into the squad." A native of Batiebly-Douibly, Ivory Coast, spent time developing with Seattle MLS NEXT Pro side, Tacoma Defiance, after arriving on loan from MFK Vyškov of the Czech National Football League, ahead of the 2022 season. He made an immediate impact in MLS NEXT Pro, registering two goals and four assists across 18 appearances in his debut campaign. Over the course of three seasons with the Defiance, he made 43 total appearances and logged three goals and nine assists with 2,511 minutes. Following a permanent move in 2023, he featured in 24 matches, including 13 starts, contributing three assists. His progression has continued this season with two goals and three assists in 16 appearances (13 starts). At the international level, Minoungou is a current member of the Brukina Faso National Team, having received his first senior team call up in September of 2025. He made his debut on September 5 as a substitute against Djibouti in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. He has scored two goals with Burkina Faso. Previously, Minoungou had made appearances for the Ivory Coast U-20 National Team. TRANSACTION: Colorado Rapids acquire winger Georgi Minoungou from Seattle Sounders FC in exchange for $2,000,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM), split between the 2026 and 2027 seasons ($1,000,000 in 2026 and $1,000,000 in 2027). Georgi Minoungou. Pronunciation: GEE-or-gee Min-oon-goo Position: Winger Height: 5-10 Weight: 155 Date of birth: July 25, 2002 Birthplace: Batiébly-Kouibly, Côte d'Ivoire Acquisition date: March 27, 2026

Seattle Sounders FC
Mar 27th, 2026
Sounders FC trades midfielder Georgi Minoungou to the Colorado Rapids in exchange for $2,000,000 in General Allocation Money.

Sounders FC trades midfielder Georgi Minoungou to the Colorado Rapids in exchange for $2,000,000 in General Allocation Money. Sounders FC Communications Friday, Mar 27, 2026, 10:00 AM RENTON, WASH. - Sounders FC today announced that it has traded midfielder Georgi Minoungou to the Colorado Rapids for $1,000,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money (GAM) and $1,000,000 in 2027 GAM, in addition to retaining a percentage of a future trade or transfer above a certain amount. The trade was completed prior to the close of MLS' Primary Transfer Window. Minoungou has 51 all-competition appearances (14 starts) for Seattle since signing with the First Team in 2024, recording three goals and seven assists, including two goals and four assists in 32 appearances (six starts) last season. "We are grateful for Georgi and all that he has brought to our organization since he joined Tacoma Defiance in 2022," said Sounders FC General Manager & Chief Soccer Officer Craig Waibel. "We are proud of how he has developed and moved up the pathway within our system and wish him all the best with Colorado." Minoungou, 23, originally joined the organization in 2022 via Tacoma Defiance, playing with the club for three seasons before signing with the First Team in August of 2024. At the MLS NEXT Pro level, he recorded four goals and six assists in 56 appearances, helping Defiance reach the MLS NEXT Pro Cup Playoffs in each of his three seasons with the team. After signing with the First Team, Minoungou earned his first MLS assist in a 4-0 road win over Columbus (September 7, 2024) before scoring his first goal for Seattle against Vancouver Whitecaps FC in a 3-0 win at BC Place (October 2, 2024). Last season, he helped the club capture the Leagues Cup 2025 title, drawing a penalty in the Final against Inter Miami CF, a 3-0 win in front of 69,314 fans at Lumen Field (August 31, 2025). He also scored the game-winning goal in a 2-1 win over Santos Laguna in Phase One of Leagues Cup 2025 (August 3, 2025). "Georgi has always played hard and put the team first since he first joined the club," said Sounders FC Head Coach Brian Schmetzer. "We are thankful for all that he has brought to the team and can't wait to see how he continues to grow with Colorado." On the international level, Minoungou has nine caps for Burkina Faso, including four appearances in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and four in 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying. He has three international goals, a brace in a friendly against Benin (November 18, 2025) and a strike against Equatorial Guinea in AFCON Group E play (December 24, 2025). Minoungou is currently with Burkina Faso during FIFA's March international window. With a week off due to the FIFA March international break, Sounders FC continues its 2026 MLS regular season on Saturday, April 4 on the road against the Houston Dynamo at Shell Energy Stadium (5:30 p.m. PT / Apple TV, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360 AM). TRANSACTION: Sounders FC trades midfielder Georgi Minoungou to the Colorado Rapids in exchange for $1,000,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money (GAM) and $1,000,000 in 2027 GAM, in addition to retaining a percentage of a future trade or transfer above a certain amount, on March 27, 2026. Sounders FC Communications