Jordan Morris, the Seattle Sounders’ hometown hero, has carved out a distinguished career in Major League Soccer (MLS), defying critics who undervalue the league’s competitiveness. Now in his ninth season with the Sounders, Morris’s pride in his achievements is palpable. “I think people doubt the level of MLS and need to kind of change their mindset,” Morris emphasized to GOAL, defending the league’s growth and the quality of play against international standards.
This year, Morris has hit a remarkable stride, notching 17 goals across 37 appearances, setting a personal best for his career. His performance not only bolsters the Sounders’ campaign but also fuels his ambition to return to the U.S. national team, particularly eyeing a spot in the 2026 World Cup roster. “I feel like I’m playing some of the best soccer in my career right now,” he shared, revealing his motivation to “keep scoring goals, to try to get back to being part of that group.”
Morris’s journey isn’t just about soccer; it’s deeply intertwined with his roots in Seattle. Born and raised in the area, his transition from a fan to a professional player at the Sounders reflects a dream fulfilled. “It’s been a dream come true,” Morris admitted, highlighting the significance of playing for his hometown team and the joy of raising his family there.
Fatherhood has brought a new perspective to Morris’s life, liberating him on the field. “Playing with more freedom now, knowing that I have him back home,” he said, referring to his son. This sense of freedom has evidently translated into his game, where he’s not only scoring but also creating opportunities for his teammates, as seen in the recent Sounders’ victories.
The conversation also touched on Morris’s brief stint in Europe with Swansea City, cut short by injury, a period he reflects on with a mix of regret for the missed opportunity and satisfaction with his MLS path. “If an opportunity popped up after this season, that might be something I look at,” he mused, indicating an openness to international moves while remaining deeply committed to Seattle.
Morris’s reflections on his career, from his early days at Stanford, where he won the prestigious Hermann Trophy, to his national team debut while still in college, paint a picture of a player who has always been ahead of his time. His move to the Sounders was strategic, aiming for consistent playtime and development, a decision he stands by despite the allure of European leagues.
As he looks toward the future, Morris’s focus remains clear: to continue contributing to the Sounders’ success, potentially explore new challenges abroad, and most importantly, to secure another shot at representing the U.S. at the highest level of soccer, the World Cup. His journey, marked by local pride, personal growth, and professional ambition, continues to be an inspiring narrative in American soccer.
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