Nicolás Lodeiro
Uruguayan playmaker who led Seattle Sounders to MLS Cup glory in 2016 and 2019.
Marcelo Nicolás Lodeiro Benítez (born 21 March 1989) is a Uruguayan former professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. He played professionally in Uruguay, the Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, and the United States, winning the Eredivisie with Ajax, the domestic double with Boca Juniors in 2015, and the MLS Cup with Seattle Sounders in 2016 and 2019, as well as the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League. He earned 60 caps for Uruguay from 2009 to 2019 and participated in two FIFA World Cups, four Copa América tournaments, the 2012 Summer Olympics, and the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.
- Nationality
- Uruguay
- Position
- Attacking Midfielder / Winger
- Jersey Number
- 10
- Joined MLS
- 2018
- Previous Club
- FC Porto
- Major Honors
- MLS Cup Winner (2019)
- Status
- Club Legend
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Lodeiro signed with Seattle Sounders on 27 July 2016, making his debut on 31 July 2016. He was instrumental in the Sounders' 2016 MLS Cup run, scoring four goals and providing eight assists in the regular season and four more goals in the playoffs. In the 2016 MLS Cup Final, he converted a penalty in the shootout as Seattle won their first MLS Cup. He also started in the 2017 MLS Cup Final (a 2–0 loss) and assisted Víctor Rodríguez's goal in the 2019 MLS Cup Final win. In the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League Final, he scored two penalties in the first leg and another goal in the second leg as Seattle won 5–2 on aggregate. He left the Sounders after the 2023 season.
In Their Own Story
The lights of Lumen Field hummed overhead, casting long shadows across the pristine grass. Inside the tunnel, Nicolás adjusted his gloves, feeling the familiar weight of the green jersey against his skin. The roar of the crowd was a distant ocean sound until he stepped into the light. He looked toward the center circle, knowing this moment required more than just skill; it demanded heart. With a deep breath, he took position for the free kick, eyes locked on the top corner.
Reader's Guide
Lodeiro is best known for his creative midfield play and leadership. He won MLS Newcomer of the Year in 2016 and was named to the MLS Best XI in 2020. His tenure at Seattle did not include any Supporters' Shield titles. He later played for Orlando City in 2024 and Houston Dynamo in 2025 before returning to Nacional in July 2025, where he retired a year later.
Did You Know?
- Lodeiro scored four goals in six playoff games during Seattle's 2016 MLS Cup run.
- He converted a penalty in the 2016 MLS Cup Final shootout to keep Seattle's hopes alive.
- Lodeiro scored two penalties in the first leg of the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League Final.
- He was named 2016 MLS Newcomer of the Year after joining Seattle mid-season.
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