On November 17, Austin FC made substantial roster changes by declining contract options for nine players and confirming options for two as part of their recovery strategy following a less-than-stellar 2023 season, according to KXAN.
Players dismissed from Austin FC's squad include Charlie Asensio, Will Bruin, Sofiane Djeffal, Kipp Keller, Adam Lundkvist, Alfonso Ocampo-Chavez, Rodney Redes, Memo Rodriguez and Maxi Urruti. In contrast, goalkeeper Damian Las and midfielder Dani Pereira had contracts renewed, resulting in a current team size of 20, as KXAN noted.
Rodney Redes, who failed in making a substantial contribution during his tenure, was among those released The Austin Chronicle reports. Many of the dismissed players had minimal impact on the 2023 season, with topmost being Will Bruin's three goals among fitness struggles. These moves, nevertheless, provide Austin FC an additional $2.25 million in guaranteed player compensation, equal to about half of the league's salary cap states the Austin Chronicle.
Alex Ring, midfielder and Designated Player, had his 2024 contract option exercised thanks to accomplishing "certain benchmarks" that saw automatic extension of his contract into 2024, reveals the Austin Chronicle. Currently, Moussa Djittè and Jhohan Romaña to play are on loan attendances. Djitte is loaned to Turkish side Bandirmaspor until June 30, 2024, and Romaña is with Paraguayan Club Olimpia until December 31, KXAN mentions.
On returning to the Philadelphia Union before the 2024 season kick-offs is defender Brandan Craig, who concluded the term on loan with Austin FC, without appearing in a competitive match according to the Austin Chronicle.
Left with huge responsibilities for the off-season period, Austin FC currently harbors 18 players ahead of the approaching season, with the potential of accommodating up to 30 players at any one time. Recently appointed Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell, previously an assistant manager for Manchester City, has a major task in terms of strengthening the team as indicated by the Austin Chronicle.
Borrell, in spite of receiving criticism from fans, voiced his support for head coach Josh Wolff, asserting that 2023's performance was an overachievement of expectations considering the season's challenges, as claimed by KXAN.
