Austin FC: What to know about Josh Wolff’s squad for the start of the 2023 MLS season

Austin FC are preparing for the new MLS season and we take a look at the latest ongoings at the MLS club ahead of their season opener.

Driussi signs new deal with Austin

Sebastian Driussi recently signed a contract extension. The Argentine will remain with the Texan club until the end of the 2025 season, with an option for an extra year.

Driussi is heading into his third season with Austin, a club where he has scored 30 goals and registered 12 assists in 54 appearances since joining in July 2021 from Russian side Zenit St. Petersburg.

“Sebastián is one of the most gifted and talented players in Major League Soccer,” said Austin FC Head Coach Josh Wolff. “He’s a top-quality player and leader in our locker room. This contract extension is well-deserved, and we’re thrilled that he’s decided to make Austin his home for the foreseeable future.”

Gabrielsen leaves Austin

Austin could feel the loss of defender Ruben Gabrielsen, who was key to their performance last season, helping the club to second place in the Western Conference.

Gabrielsen has joined Norwegian outfit Lillestrøm and Finland international Leo Väisänen has been signed to replace the 30-year-old.

Former Colorado player Gyasi Zardes has joined Austin on a free transfer and Adam Lundkvist makes the move to Austin from Houston Dynamo ahead of the 2023 campaign.

Who is Josh Wolff?

Josh Wolff is Austin’s head coach. The 45-year-old joined the club in January 2020 and his current deal runs until 2025.

Wolff previously worked as Gregg Berhalter’s assistant with DC United and Colombus Crew and was also an assistant with the USMNT national team.

Reyna resigns

Claudio Reyna has resigned as Austin FC’s sporting director. He is moving into a technical advisor role before the club’s third MLS season.

Austin appointed Reyna as their sporting director in November 2019 ahead of the club’s launch during the 2021 MLS campaign.

“I am grateful that Anthony and the organization have given me the opportunity to scale back my role and responsibilities while continuing to contribute to the success of a club that I love,” Reyna said in a statement.

First MLS game

Austin’s first game of the new MLS season is against St. Louis City SC on 25 February at 8:30 pm ET.