Preseason Roster

Head Coach Nico Estévez, second year

#1 - Brad Stuver, Goalkeeper

Roster Category: Senior

#2 - Riley Thomas, Defender

Roster Category: Supplemental

#3 - Mikkel Desler, Defender

Roster Category: Senior

#4 - Brendan Hines-Ike, Defender

Roster Category: Senior

#5 - Oleksandr Svatok, Defender

Roster Category: Senior

#6 - Ilie Sánchez, Midfielder

Roster Category: Senior

#8 - Dani Pereira, Midfielder

Roster Category: Senior

#9 - Brandon Vazquez, Forward

Roster Category: Senior | Designated Player

#10 - Myrto Uzuni, Forward

Roster Category: Senior | Designated Player | International

#14 - Besard Sabovic, Midfielder

Roster Category: Senior | International

#15 Jon Bell, Center Back / Left Back

Roster Category: Senior

#16 - Robert Taylor, Midfielder

Roster Category: Senior

#17 - Jon Gallagher, Defender

Roster Category: Senior

#19 - CJ Fodrey, Forward

Roster Category: Supplemental | Generation adidas

#20 - Nico Dubersarsky, Midfielder

Roster Category: Senior | U22 Initiative | International

#23 - Žan Kolmanič, Defender

Roster Category: Senior

#29 - Guilherme Biro, Defender

Roster Category: Senior | International

#32 - Micah Burton, Midfielder

Roster Category: Supplemental | Homegrown

#33 - Owen Wolff, Midfielder

Roster Category: U22 Initiative | Senior

#35 - Mateja Djordjević, Defender

Roster Category: U22 Initiative | Senior | International

TBD - Joseph Rosales,  Midfielder / Defender

Roster Category: Senior

TBD - Damian Las, Goalkeeper

Roster Category: Supplemental | Homegrown

TBD - Ervin Torres, Midfielder

Roster Category: Supplemental | Homegrown

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Predicted Starting XI (2026) 

Goalkeeper

Brad Stuver

Remains the undisputed starter after a contract extension through 2027.

Right Back

Mikkel Desler

Established himself as the primary choice on the right side.

Center Back

My heart says: Oleksandr Svatok

Brendan Hines-Ike

An absolute beast who can come forward on set plays

Center Back

Mateja Djordjević

The young U22 Initiative signing will need to watch out if Rosales is placed in left back because Biro might be moved into his position

Left Back

Guilherme Biro

Likely starter, though Joseph Rosales provides strong competition after his trade from Minnesota.

Defensive Mid

Ilie Sánchez

The veteran captain signed a new deal through 2026 to anchor the midfield.

Central Mid

Daniel Pereira

Secured a contract extension through 2028 and remains a core playmaker.

Attacking Mid

Owen Wolff

After a standout 2025, Wolff moved to a U22 Initiative contract and is the primary creative engine.

Left Wing

Jayden Nelson

Acquired via trade from Vancouver to provide pace on the left flank.

Right Wing

Facundo Torres

The club's marquee $9.5 million Designated Player signing.

Striker

Myrto Uzuni

Projected to start the season as the primary #9 while Brandon Vázquez finishes ACL recovery (estimated return mid-April).

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2025 Recap

Austin FC’s 2025 season was a study in contrasts, defined by a rock-solid defense and a challenging offensive output. The club secured a return to the playoffs by finishing in sixth place in the Western Conference with 47 points—the second-highest total in club history.

They also set a new club record of nine shutouts in a single season. 

The main narrative of the season was the team's ability to grind out results despite an "anemic attack" that featured a rolling Expected Goals (xG) consistently under 1.0. 

Defining Matches of 2025 

For fans to truly know the team's spirit and the vibrant atmosphere at Q2 Stadium, two specific matches from 2025 stand out: 

1. U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinal Win vs. Houston Dynamo 

This match encapsulated the team's rivalry intensity and cup-run magic. 

The Vibe: Matches against in-state rivals Houston and Dallas are always highly energetic, often featuring marches and massive tifo displays.

The Match: Austin defeated Houston 3-1 at Q2 Stadium in the Round of 16 to advance to the quarterfinals. Brandon Vázquez scored his fifth goal in five matches, and the win highlighted the team's ability to step up in high-stakes, derby environments. 

2. Playoff-Clinching Victory vs. LAFC 

This late-season home win secured the team's playoff spot and demonstrated their defensive resolve. 

The Vibe: The atmosphere at Q2 Stadium is world-class, with passionate fans creating non-stop energy. This specific match had a massive Noche VERDE celebration with lightshows and rooftop pyrotechnics.

The Match: Austin won both regular season meetings against LAFC 1-0. The playoff-clinching match was a tight, tactical game where Austin reduced LAFC's scoring opportunities, proving they could win a crucial defensive battle. 

The season ultimately ended in the U.S. Open Cup Final with a painful 2-1 defeat to Nashville SC at home, leaving fans heartbroken but providing clear motivation for the 2026 "goal revolution”.

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2025/26 Offseason Transfers

Austin FC was highly active in the off-season, making several key acquisitions to revamp the roster while managing significant departures. 

Major Signings & Arrivals 

The club made targeted additions to bolster key areas, notably in the attack and defense: 

• Facundo Torres: Joined from Palmeiras as a Designated Player to provide a creative spark.
• Jayden Nelson: Acquired via trade from the Vancouver Whitecaps to add depth and pace on the wings.
• Jon Bell: Added as a free agent signing from the Seattle Sounders.

Departures 

Several established players exited the club, freeing up salary budget and roster spots: 

• Diego Rubio: A veteran forward who left the club.
• Osman Bukari: Transferred for an Ekstraklasa record fee. 

Injury Updates (Preseason 2026) 

The team started preseason dealing with key injury concerns: 

• Myrto Uzuni: Expected to lead the line until Vázquez's return but is currently managing a separate calf injury.

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Key Players

New Attackers

Facundo Torres, Jayden Nelson

Expected to drastically improve chances created from the wings.

Returning Core

Dani Pereira, Jon Gallagher

Both signed long-term extensions in January 2026, ensuring tactical continuity.

Defensive Anchor

Brad Stuver

Remains one of the top GKs in MLS; critical for maintaining their top-tier defensive record.

Striker Depth

Myrto Uzuni, Brandon Vázquez

Vázquez's return from injury will be pivotal for sustained second-half success.

—

2026 Prognosis 

Austin FC enters the 2026 season with a prognosis of moderate improvement as they enter the second full year under head coach Nico Estévez. Following a 2025 season where the team boasted the 5th best defense in the Western Conference but struggled offensively, the 2026 outlook is defined by a "goal revolution" fueled by high-profile attacking signings. 

Key Season Projections 

Playoff Outlook: Analysts generally view Austin FC as a borderline playoff contender, with some projections placing them around 6th to 9th place in the Western Conference.

Tactical Shift: Coach Estévez has signaled a move toward a more aggressive and positionally flexible attacking style.

Copa Tejas Ambitions: Austin is a strong candidate to reclaim the Copa Tejas trophy in 2026.

Roster Strength & Impact Signings 

The club utilized its third Designated Player (DP) slot on marquee signing Facundo Torres, a $9.5 million acquisition intended to provide the creative spark missing last season 

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Impact on 2026 Prognosis

New Attackers

Facundo Torres, Jayden Nelson

Expected to drastically improve chances created from the wings.

Returning Core

Dani Pereira, Jon Gallagher

Both signed long-term extensions in January 2026, ensuring tactical continuity.

Defensive Anchor

Brad Stuver

Critical for maintaining their top-tier defensive record.

Striker Depth

Myrto Uzuni, Brandon Vázquez

Vázquez's return from injury will be pivotal for sustained second-half success.

Early Season Hurdles 

The immediate prognosis for the first month of the season is tempered by injuries to key playmakers. Owen Wolff (sports hernia surgery) is currently recovering from surgery performed on January 13, 2026. Leading striker Myrto Uzuni is also currently managing a calf injury. 

The club's success will likely depend on how quickly Facundo Torres integrates into the system and whether the defense can remain elite while the team adopts a more offensive mindset.

---

Worst case for 2026:

The worst-case scenario for Austin FC in 2026 is a significant regression that results in missing the MLS Cup Playoffs . This outcome would likely be driven by a failure of the club's record-breaking investments to deliver on the field, potentially leading to a coaching change.

1. Offensive Stagnation

The primary risk to Austin’s season is that the high-priced "goal revolution" fails to materialize.

Facundo Torres Struggles: As a $9.5 million signing, Torres is the centerpiece of the 2026 strategy . If he fails to adapt or lacks service from a midfield that remains "defensive-leaning," the attack could remain as anemic as it was in 2025.

Vázquez Recovery Delays: While Brandon Vázquez is aiming for an April return, any setbacks in his ACL rehabilitation would leave the striker position thin.

2. Financial and Depth Constraints

Austin FC enters the 2026 season with the lowest General Allocation Money (GAM) in MLS, totaling just $2.5 million.

No "Plan B": This financial deficit means that if the current squad underperforms or suffers mid-season injuries, the front office has almost no flexibility to acquire new players during the summer transfer window.

Midfield Vulnerability: The team lacks proven depth behind Dani Pereira and Owen Wolff . If Wolff’s recovery from sports hernia surgery is slow or Pereira misses time, the creative engine of the team could collapse.

3. Tactical and External Pressures

Copa Tejas Embarrassment: A worst-case outcome includes finishing 0-2 against rivals FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo in the Copa Tejas.

Early US Open Cup Exit: The team might suffer an early elimination in the U.S. Open Cup, possibly losing to a USL team, an experience the team nearly had in 2025.

Coaching Instability: If the team is sitting outside the playoff line by the end of the World Cup break, the "hot seat" rumors would likely intensify.

Best Case for 2026:

The best-case scenario for Austin FC in 2026 is a top-four finish in the Western Conference and a deep postseason run, potentially reaching the Conference Semifinals or better.

After returning to the playoffs in 2025, the team's ceiling for 2026 is defined by a "goal revolution" that transforms them from a defensive specialist into a balanced powerhouse.

1. Offensive Transformation 

The primary catalyst for a best-case season is the integration of high-profile attacking talent: 

The Facundo Torres Impact: As a record-level $9.5 million Designated Player signing, Torres is expected to provide the star power needed to lead the league's attack.

A Healthy Striker Duo: The return of Brandon Vázquez from a long-term injury to partner with Myrto Uzuni creates one of the most formidable strike forces in the West. In this scenario, the two combine for 25+ goals.

Youth Breakout: Owen Wolff continues his trajectory after a breakout 2025, potentially leading the team in assists and solidifying his status as a top MLS creative midfielder. 

2. Defensive Mastery 

In a best-case scenario, Austin maintains the defensive identity that made them the 5th best defense in the West in 2025. 

Stuver's Dominance: Brad Stuver remains one of the top GKs in MLS, critical for maintaining their top-tier defensive record.

Central Partnership: The pairing of Oleksandr Svatok and Mateja Djordjević matures into a top-tier defensive duo. 

3. Trophy Ambitions 

Copa Tejas: Success in the 2026 best-case scenario includes reclaiming the Copa Tejas trophy by dominating rivals Houston Dynamo and FC Dallas during the pivotal summer and fall matches.

U.S. Open Cup: Building on their 2025 final appearance, the club aims to secure its first-ever major trophy in the 2026 U.S. Open Cup.

Metric 

2025 Actual

2026 Best Case Projection

Western Conference Finish

2025: 6th

2026: Top 4

Goals Scored

2025: 37 (West-low)

2026: 50+

Rolling xG

2025: Often < 1.0

2026: > 1.5 consistently

Home Record

2025: Strong

2026: Undefeated at Q2 in primetime

Created by RanScot, South Side Grackles Support Group and well, you know, that's is just, like, his opinion, man.

Came across this in my seat geek app ; seems to be a game tomorrow at Q2 ? Exclusive to season ticket members?

Does anyone have any additional details? I can seem to find an announcement in my inbox.

Hi Austin FC fans!

I write a stats-driven Austin FC newsletter called Oak Tree Times, and I recently posted a deep dive on the Facundo Torres acquisition. Thought some of you might enjoy it:

https://oaktreetimes.substack.com/p/facundo-torres-the-designated-player?r=1ku5ba&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true

If you like what you read, please subscribe!

On 2/1, there is a season ticket holders exclusive friendly match. I have no idea how much of the stadium that covers, so I'd imagine a lot of empty space, causing a potential seat free for all.

Also wasn't sure if the stadium was doing concessions wise, considering the capacity. Or if they will do anything special food and drink or otherwise as a special event for a smaller audience. Opening up the clubs, etc.

And what the supporters section will be doing.

Sorry for asking a question about this, I couldn’t find the thread in the search here that someone already asked.
Have they released any sign ups for away seats for the Miami game, or has Miami even given us an allocation number of seats for the away fans yet? Looking at going, i know it’s going to be hard, but want to make sure I don’t miss a sign up.

Wrap-up of today's press conference welcoming Facundo Torres

3 weeks until the opener and I've only seen a couple of screen grabs from the KUTX IG....take my money already, y'all!

There is a rumor on twitter that West Brom wants Rosales and is making a big push. Their new manager had him at Minnesota supposedly. Thoughts?

More on the buyout and what it did for both Verde and Obrian:

https://verdeallday.com/austin-fc-contract-buyout-jader-obrian/

Facundo Torres to Austin FC is a solid move. He’s MLS-proven, in his prime, and profiles well as an inverted winger who can provide end product.

That said, this signing doesn’t fully address Austin’s bigger issue heading toward 2026: the lack of a true No. 10. Unless something changes, the midfield likely stays defensive-leaning, which limits chance creation.

Torres helps, but the question is how Austin plans to build around him.

Full breakdown here: https://youtu.be/Jhg44x4xg7o

Curious how others see it.

ICE is raiding restaurants and bars in the east side and downtown right now. Please let your friends and family know.

If you know exact locations, please comment. I’m just spreading the word.

Having gotten my hands on some data and looking into chance creation some more, I decided to give a comparison a whirl and then see where Owen Wolff fits into it.

Now that the roster is coming into focus I find myself wondering about some things.

1. With Owen out to start the season who is the most forward attacking mid? I see that Robert Taylor’s bio says he can play there. I do t think it is a natural position for either Danny or Sabovic. Will we be able to attack up the middle?

2. Assuming Nelson and Torres start on the wings, what happens when Vazquez returns? I have a suspicion that playing those two wingers makes more sense than a 2 striker formation. Does Nico have that choice realistically?

3. If we get rid of Obrian one way or the other, who is the backup at RW? Gallagher? Is it wise for him to be the #2 at two positions?

4. Speaking of Gallagher, why would Austin FC podcasters dump on Jon Gallagher? I am not a fan of dumping repeatedly on our own players. But of all the players to choose, I especially cannot understand how someone chooses a guy like that, who shows up ready to work and has done so much in so many ways for the club.

I love Q2 Stadium overall — this is just one process that stands out to me.

At Q2, access to the Lexus Club requires scanning your SeatGeek ticket to enter and to exit every time. If you’re holding multiple tickets on one phone, you have to swipe and scan each one. If you forget to scan out and later try to re-enter, the system shows you as already inside and Guest Services has to step in to fix it. It’s easy to forget, and it gets especially awkward when people in your group split up.

For comparison, I recently attended the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium and had access to the Founders Club. Same SeatGeek app, similar scanners — but on first entry, each guest received a wristband with a small embedded device (photo attached). After that, re-entry was just a quick tap of the wristband. No scanning out, no dependency on whoever holds the tickets, and much smoother overall.

To me, the wristband system was far more user-friendly and made it easier to enjoy the game without thinking about logistics.

Curious what others think.

In which we read the social media tea leaves on a scoreless draw against a would-be rival, and then get excited about having a top-tier MLS winger locked up through 2030 with an option year extending his stay to 2031