Raúl Ruidíaz is a Peruvian association football player and a prolific striker who achieved notable success in Major League Soccer with the Seattle Sounders. He was a key contributor to the club's 2022 CONCACAF Champions League title and became the team's all-time top goalscorer. His professional journey spans several international leagues, including stints in Mexico and Chile, alongside his appearances for the Peru national team.
The Seattle Sounders secured their first CONCACAF Champions League title in 2022 after Raúl Ruidíaz scored twice in the second leg against UNAM.
Early Development and Breakthrough
Born in Lima on 25 July 1990, Ruidíaz began his football development at Universitario de Deportes at the age of eight. He debuted professionally on 4 October 2009 against Total Chalaco. Under the guidance of manager Juan Reynoso, he contributed three goals during the 2009 season, helping the club secure the national title. His performance led to his recognition by the Brazilian newspaper O Globo as a notable South American talent by 2010.
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Ruidíaz moved to the Chilean club Universidad de Chile in January 2012, where he participated in the 2012 Apertura season. By July 2016, he transitioned to the Mexican club Monarcas Morelia on loan. His tenure in Liga MX proved productive, earning him the Golden Boot for both the Apertura 2016 and Clausura 2017 seasons. His contributions were critical in 2017, when a decisive goal against Monterrey helped the team avoid relegation and qualify for the liguilla.
Achievements in Major League Soccer
Joining a new club in 2018, Ruidíaz established himself as a prolific striker. He set team records for the fastest player to reach 10 goals in league play and maintained the longest streak of consecutive matches with a goal. In 2019, he scored in the MLS Cup Final victory over Toronto FC. By March 2024, he surpassed the previous all-time scoring record for the club, finishing his seven-season tenure with the organization following the conclusion of his contract in late 2024.
International Representation
Ruidíaz earned his first international cap for Peru on 7 June 2011 against Japan. He participated in the 2011 Copa América, where Peru achieved third place. During the 2016 Copa América Centenario, he attracted attention for a goal against Brazil that was awarded after referee consultation. He also represented his country in the 2018 World Cup in Russia and was part of the squad that finished as runner-up in the 2019 Copa América.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 July 1990, Lima, Peru
- Citizenship: Peru, Croatia
- Primary Position: Striker
- 2016-17 Liga MX Balón de Oro recipient
- 2022 CONCACAF Champions League winner
- Career move: Signed with Atlético Grau on 3 April 2025
Questions readers ask
What is Raúl Ruidíaz's nickname?
He is often called The Flea due to his small stature and ball control.
How many goals did he score for the Seattle Sounders?
He became the team's all-time top goalscorer across all competitions during the club's era, surpassing the previous record of 79 goals.
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