Austin FC hires Nico Estevez to lead team revival in 2024

Austin FC, located in the United States, has appointed Nico Estevez as their new head coach after experiencing two consecutive seasons without qualifying for the Major League Soccer playoffs. Estevez, who previously coached FC Dallas and earned a playoff berth with them in 2022 and 2023, was let go following a disappointing start to the current season. The club finished 11th in the Western Conference, just behind Austin, which adds to the urgency for change. Estevez steps in to replace Josh Wolff, who held the head coaching position since the franchise's inception and was dismissed late in the 2023 season. The decision reflects a strategic shift aimed at revitalizing the club after their progress to the Western Conference final in 2022 was followed by disappointing performances in the subsequent years. Estevez's background includes tenure as an assistant with the U.S. national team and recent involvement in coaching during friendlies, highlighting his experience and ambition. The team's sporting director, Rodolfo Borrell, emphasized Estevez's familiarity with Texas culture as a vital asset, indicating the club's focus on both local connections and professional expertise to regain competitive standing within the league.