Seattle Reign FC’s Megan Rapinoe out five weeks

Just two days before Seattle Reign FC take on the North Carolina Courage, the club announced that forward Megan Rapinoe will be out at least five weeks. Rapinoe underwent arthroscopic surgery on her left knee sometime this week at the University of Washington Medical Center. The NWSL injury report lists Rapinoe’s injury as a left knee meniscus tear.

Rapinoe, the NWSL leader in goals with 12, first reported knee soreness while with the U.S. Women’s National Team for the Tournament of Nations.

“Megan first reported knee soreness after the U.S. Women’s National Team match against Japan on August 3rd,” said Reign FC director of high performance Nick Leman. “After investigation and consultation, it was determined that arthroscopic surgery was the best course of action.”

It will be tough for Reign FC to replace Rapinoe’s goal scoring prowess she has shown this year. Beverly Yanez and Nahomi Kawasumi are tied for second on the team in goals scored with four.

Reign FC currently sit in fourth place in the standings — the final playoff spot. The team faces the North Carolina Courage, who currently sit at the top of the league table, at home on Sunday, August 13. Jess Fishlock will also miss this weekend’s match with an “excused absence.” Fishlock returned to the starting lineup last weekend after missing a month with a sprained MCL.

Seattle then travels to Chicago for a mid-week match against the second-place Red Stars and a weekend match against Sky Blue FC. It’s going to be a tough five weeks without Rapinoe, with plenty of young players and rookies getting pushed into the starting lineup or at least earning more playing time.

If Rapinoe’s injury timeline is accurate, she’ll be back for the final two regular season matches: a September 24 home match against FC Kansas City and a September 30 road match against the Washington Spirit.