Another match week completed, another loss, and another article analyzing the struggles of a Nashville SC Designated Player. This time, Sam Surridge is under the microscope.
Chance creation for the No. 9
The good news for Nashville SC is that their chance creation has improved significantly from 2024. Last year, the Boys In Gold created 19 chances for Sam Surridge with an xG greater than .15, which I'll call "Good+ chances". Through nine games in 2025, Nashville have already created 12 Good+ chances for Surridge. The attack is firing with Surridge as the focal point. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to finish what’s been set up for him.
Sam Surridge has the fifth-highest xG in MLS in 2025 at 5.1, but he's only scored two goals. His -3.1 goals-xG total is the worst in the league. He should be competing for the Golden Boot with players like Hugo Cuypers, Chicho Arango, and Tai Baribo, but instead, he's the scapegoat of Nashville’s recent struggles.
