The Portland Timbers are scheduled to clash with the Seattle Sounders for the second time in two weeks this Saturday at Providence Park.
Since the Timbers last faced off with their rivals from up the road some changes have occurred in the Rose City. Here’s everything you need to know to catch up with the news ahead of this weekend’s Cascadia Cup match!
Timbers sign Dutch forward Vincent Janssen
The Timbers have acquired Vincent Janssen from Royal Antwerp FC. He is set to join the team on a two-year (non DP!) contract through the 2027-28 season. The 32-year-old striker will presumably fill the hole left in the Timbers roster by the departure of club legend Felipe Mora to Liga MX club Atletico de San Luis.
During his past four seasons in Belgium he scored 64 goals and provided 27 assists in 173 appearances for Antwerp. Janssen’s stint with the Timbers will be his second time playing in North America after he spent a few seasons in Liga MX with CF Monterrey from 2019-22.
“We are pleased to be able to add a player with the level of qualities that Vincent possesses. His experience and goal scoring ability will add a value to our current group, and we believe he will have an impactful role within the team,” Timbers General Manager Ned Grabavoy shared via press release. “We look forward to welcoming Vincent and his family to the Rose City."
He has 7 goals in 22 caps with the senior Dutch national team and will be the first Dutch player of the Timbers MLS era. Janssen arrives in Portland on a free transfer and will wear number 14 on the field.
He will likely not be available this weekend as he awaits approval of his visa, but Timbers fans shouldn't have to wait too long to see their new number 14.
Juan Mosquera undergoes successful surgery
After featuring off and on throughout the first part of the season due to nagging leg injuries, fullback Juan Mosquera underwent a successful operation on his left ankle and knee.
He will be out for 8-10 months, putting his return timeline close to the end of the shortened MLS sprint season next year.
Portland has cover at fullback, with Brandon Bye proving himself well as a starter this year and both Eric Miller and Sawyer Jura able to back up the position.
Coaching changes
While Martí Cifuentes was recently announced as the next head coach of the Portland Timbers, Jack Cassidy will remain in charge for what will likely be his final game this weekend.
The signs are pointing towards Cifuentes taking charge starting with the Leagues Cup on August 6. Cassidy has been a steady hand to start Portland's second half of 2026. He's guided them to their best three-game stretch this year, collecting seven points from three games.
On Saturday, he will look to end his interim stint just as he started it: with a resounding win over the Seattle Sounders.
