Brandon Vázquez’s tenure at CF Monterrey has come to an unexpected conclusion, as reports confirm that he and the Liga MX club have mutually agreed to terminate his contract. Just under a year after joining Monterrey from FC Cincinnati, Vázquez’s exit marks a significant point in his career, occurring on January 10, 2024. During his short stay, he made a substantial impact on the team, netting 14 goals and providing one assist across 49 appearances, an impressive tally considering he often came in as a substitute. This decision raises questions about the dynamics of his relationship with the coaching staff and the strategic direction of the team.
Despite his productive scoring record, Vázquez frequently found himself on the bench. He only made seven starts throughout the Liga MX Apertura and Liguilla seasons. This limited playing time might have informed his decision to leave, as both former head coach Fernando Ortiz and the current manager, Martín Demichelis, consistently opted for other attackers over him. The choice to prioritize Germán Berterame over Vázquez hints at a tactical preference that perhaps did not align with the American forward’s aspirations for a more prominent role on the field.
With Vázquez now a free agent, speculation is rife regarding his next move. The most notable reports suggest he may return to Major League Soccer (MLS), with the promising expansion team, San Diego FC, appearing as a frontrunner in the race to sign him. As San Diego builds its roster ahead of its debut season in February 2025, Vázquez’s local ties as a San Diego native could play a crucial role in his decision. Currently, San Diego FC has only Hirving Lozano as their Designated Player, leaving room for two more, which could potentially open the door for Vázquez to return to the league where he previously thrived.
Before his move to Monterrey, Vázquez had an illustrious career in MLS, tallying 86 goals in 150 appearances over seven seasons with Atlanta United and FC Cincinnati. His contributions were vital to Atlanta’s success in clinching the MLS Cup in 2018 and the U.S. Open Cup in 2019. Later, with Cincinnati, he played a critical role in securing the Supporters’ Shield in 2023. These achievements underscore Vázquez’s potential as a game-changer, making his departure from Monterrey a significant loss for the club.
On the international front, Vázquez’s performances have also been noteworthy. With four goals in 11 appearances for the U.S. national team, he has established himself as a reliable option for the squad. His recent inclusion in the roster for the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals against Jamaica underlines the faith that the new head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, has in him. As he prepares for his next chapter, whether it be in Mexico, MLS, or elsewhere, Brandon Vázquez’s career continues to evolve, with the potential for new heights on both domestic and international stages.