Seattle Sounders player Obed Vargas transfers to Atlético Madrid.
Midfielder Obed Vargas has finalized a transfer to Atlético Madrid from MLS club Seattle Sounders FC, joining the LaLiga team until June 30, 2030.
Vargas had previously indicated his aspiration to play for Atleti after competing against the LaLiga team at the 2025 Club World Cup.
“I hope [to one day play with Atlético], I think if I keep doing everything well then one day I’ll be able to join,” he stated during the 2025 summer tournament.
The 20-year-old midfielder now leaves Seattle Sounders, where he made his debut in 2021 and went on to tally four goals and 12 assists in 92 MLS matches over five seasons.
The Mexico international became an integral part of the squad under head coach Brian Schmetzer, participating in the team’s 2022 Concacaf Champions League victory and the 2025 Leagues Cup final win against Inter Miami CF.
Vargas’ achievements at the club level attracted interest from multiple teams, with the midfielder even turning down an offer from Liga MX club América to chase his ambition of playing in Europe.
“They [Club América] reached out, but my priority is going to Europe,” Vargas told ESPN.
On the international stage, Vargas has been called up to represent the Mexican national team at both youth and senior levels. Most recently, he played as a substitute under manager Javier Aguirre in a friendly against Uruguay, entering the match in the 65th minute.
“Every time I’ve been in a camp, the coaching staff lets us know that we are in there for a reason,” Vargas remarked. “There is only a certain number of players that can make the roster, so if you are here it means you have a chance to make the World Cup roster. They tell us to be healthy, be fit and be playing, that’ll give you the best chance of making the squad. So those are my goals this year, be healthy, be fit and be playing.”
