Austin FC signs midfielder with Barcelona DNA to reshape their 2025 ambitions | OneFootball

Austin FC has started building towards the 2025 season with the acquisition of Ilie Sánchez, a veteran midfielder with nearly a decade of MLS experience. The 34-year-old has inked a contract through 2025, with an option for 2026, after departing LAFC as a free agent. Sánchez, who has left his mark on the history of the league with conquests like the 2022 MLS Cup, has joined the Texas club to reinforce the roster and help the team get out of its recent troubles.

A strategic signing for a team in transition

With the departures of Alex Ring and Jhojan Valencia, Austin FC needed a player who could bring stability and leadership to its midfield. Sánchez, with 242 MLS appearances, 10 goals, and 18 assists, fits that role perfectly.

"Ilie has been one of the league's top defensive midfielders in recent seasons. His quality, experience, and leadership will make him an excellent addition to our group," said Rodolfo Borrell, Austin FC's sporting director. Sánchez's presence is expected to balance a midfield that features young talents like Dani Pereira and Owen Wolff, with Sebastián Driussi being one of the important figures in the attack of the team.

Impact off the field

Ilie Sánchez is more than just his skill on the pitch. The FC Barcelona academy product of the famed La Masia has made a name for himself as one of the league's top captains, both on and off the pitch. In 2024, he was a finalist for the Audi Goals Drive Progress Impact Award and had previously been named Sporting KC's Humanitarian of the Year multiple times for his work in the community. His commitment to social causes aligns with those of Austin FC and continues to deepen the bond between the club and their supporters.

The challenge in 2025 and Sánchez's role within the new system

Austin FC enters the 2025 campaign with the goal of getting back into the playoffs for the first time in two years with head coach Nico Estévez. Sánchez's presence will be important to give the team an upward transition toward consistency and competitiveness in its style of play, with control and organization in midfield. With the opener against Sporting Kansas City set for February 22, the team will have an early chance to show which path it's heading toward in the new campaign.