In a significant move that signals their ambition, Austin FC has secured the talents of striker Brandon Vázquez from Liga MX’s Monterrey, cementing this acquisition as a club-record transfer. Though the franchise chose to keep the exact fee under wraps, reports suggest it stands at an impressive $10 million. This ambitious investment indicates Austin’s desire to elevate its competitive edge in Major League Soccer (MLS).
At 26 years old, Vázquez brings a wealth of experience and skill to the table. His recent performance with Monterrey was nothing short of remarkable, where he netted 14 goals in the 2024 Liga MX season. This success follows a solid tenure in MLS, where he accumulated a total of 35 goals and 19 assists over 144 matches. His journey began with Atlanta United—where he contributed to their prestigious 2018 MLS Cup victory—before moving to FC Cincinnati, where he continued to shine, earning accolades such as the MLS Best XI in 2022 and the Supporters’ Shield in 2023.
The addition of Vázquez to Austin FC signals the club’s intent not just to compete but to thrive at a higher level of play, particularly with his pedigree in crucial moments.
On the international front, Vázquez has begun to make a name for himself as well. He has played 11 times for the U.S. men’s national team, scoring four goals, with a notable contribution during the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup, where he scored three times. His ability to perform on the international stage adds vital depth and experience to Austin FC’s roster.
Vázquez expressed his enthusiasm about joining Austin FC, emphasizing the club’s strong community support and ambitious plans for the future. He aims to hit the ground running, keen to contribute to the team’s successes in the immediate season and beyond. Austin FC’s sporting director Rodolfo Borrell emphasized that Vázquez’s reputation as a dedicated and passionate competitor were pivotal factors in his acquisition. This clearly shows a strategic focus on not only skill but also the player’s mentality and character, aligning with the club’s culture.
Alongside the strategic signing of Vázquez, the club also made headlines by trading $100,000 in general allocation money to the San Jose Earthquakes. This move to secure the top position in the waiver order showcases Austin FC’s forward-thinking mentality, indicating a desire to optimize their roster with potentially impactful players in the near future.
Brandon Vázquez’s arrival at Austin FC represents a bold step towards elevating the club’s ambition in MLS. With his proven track record and eagerness to impact his new team, he embodies the hope and aspiration that Austin FC has as they look to assert themselves as a formidable force in American soccer.