The Sounders have announced that goalkeeper Stefan Frei has signed a new contract, extending his time with the team through June 2027 for likely one last dance. Though it’s speculated that Frei will take a supporting role in the squad, likely to back up Andrew Thomas, his experience and continued leadership will be a significant feature of the locker room.
With this new agreement, Frei’s contract will officially expire before the commencement of the shifted MLS calendar to better align with international soccer schedules. Specifically, Frei’s new contract will conclude at the end of the 14-week 2027 MLS season, which wraps up just before the onset of the subsequent 2027/28 MLS season slated to kick off in July.
Frei’s tenure in Seattle turned him into a club legend over the years, contributing to the club’s success since joining in 2014, where he won the Supporters’ Shield in his first season and went on to win two MLS Cups, one CONCACAF Champions League, and the Leagues Cup with the club. Though Andrew Thomas stepped up during the 2025 Leagues Cup as the starter, Frei served as the veteran backup during the competition. In the 2016 MLS Cup Final, Frei made his famous save in extra time against Jozy Altidore’s header to keep the Sounders alive. Branded as ‘The Save,’ Frei’s critical contribution led the Sounders to hold out Toronto FC through extra time and win the title on penalties.
Now entering his 13th season with the Sounders, Frei has so far made 422 appearances and 134 clean sheets for the club in all competitions.
Cover Photo: Aimee Worhtington / Area Sports Network
