Becky Sauerbrunn joins Portland Thorns as technical consultant for 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 3:16 PM
Last updated Sep 3, 2026
Former USWNT and Portland Thorns defender Becky Sauerbrunn has returned to the club as a technical consultant for the remainder of the 2026 season. The four-time NWSL defender of the year will focus on assisting the back line and serving as a mentor for the coaching staff and players. Portland currently sits fifth in the NWSL standings following a 1-1 draw with Gotham FC last week. The team has conceded 30 goals throughout the current campaign, and the organization intends for Sauerbrunn to provide tactical support as the club prepares for the upcoming playoffs. Sauerbrunn retired from professional soccer in 2024 after a career that included three NWSL championships. Her new role will also involve providing leadership guidance for the squad's younger players.
- •Becky Sauerbrunn joins the Portland Thorns as a technical consultant for the remainder of 2026.
- •The former defender will work with the team's back line and provide leadership mentorship.
- •Portland holds fifth place in the NWSL table following a recent 1-1 draw with Gotham FC.
- •The team has conceded 30 goals in league play this season.
- •Sauerbrunn retired from the NWSL in 2024 after a decorated 12-season career.
- 3:16 PMYahoo Sports — USWNT legend Becky Sauerbrunn returns to Portland as technical consultant
"USWNT and Portland Thorns legend Becky Sauerbrunn is coming back to the Rose City to assist the club as a technical consultant for the remainder of the 2026 season. A two-time Women’s World Cup winner, three-time NWSL champion and four-time NWSL defender of the year, Sauerbrunn aims to bring her expertise and mentorship to the players. “My role will be multifaceted,” Sauerbrunn told The Athletic. “I’ll work with the back line, but I’ll also be a resource for the coaching staff and the players. I
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