The Seattle Sounders announced this week that former midfielder Gonzalo Pineda had joined Brian Schmetzer’s coaching staff for the 2017 season. Pineda, who also played for the Mexico national team, spent two seasons in Seattle, his only tenure outside of Mexico. But according to Pineda, his time with the Sounders was very special—just one reason why he chose to start his coaching career in the Emerald City. “This was a great opportunity for my career to start my new career as a coach, and I’m more than happy,” Pineda said.
After retiring at the conclusion of the 2016 season, Pineda spent a year as a broadcaster before making the decision to begin his coaching career.