Sauerbrunn, a two-time World Cup champion, will bring her defensive expertise and veteran mentorship to the team, as stated by the Thorns. She will also be part of the team's video analysis process. The 38-year-old retired from professional soccer in 2024 after four years with the Thorns, where she won an NWSL Championship and an NWSL Shield.
As a player, Sauerbrunn was widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world after her breakout 2015 World Cup and NWSL season. She joins Portland and head coach Robert Vilahamn's staff with the team in fifth place, seven points off Gotham FC for the NWSL Shield. Sauerbrunn's addition is seen as a significant boost to the team's chances of competing for titles, according to Portland Thorns president and general manager of soccer operations Jeff Agoos.
The Thorns will look to utilise Sauerbrunn's knowledge and experience to improve their defensive record, which has conceded 30 goals in 22 games this season.