Austin FC announced yesterday that the club had signed a multi-year deal with Argentinian attacking midfielder Sebastián Driussi. The contract keeps Driussi in Texas as a designated player until 2025, with an option to extend a further year until 2026.
Singing his praises, Austin head coach Josh Wolff called him “one of the most gifted and talented players in Major League Soccer.” He went on to say: “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.”
Rooted as a new legend. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/aD8PYMDTsU
— Austin FC (@AustinFC) February 14, 2023
On his contract extension, Driussi said: “This club and community have made Austin feel like home for my family and me. I have big ambitions here both personally and for the team, and I’m excited to work with my teammates, Josh, and the staff to achieve them.”
A season to remember
Driussi had a truly breathtaking 2022. The 27-year-old led his team all the way to the Western conference final in only their second ever season, losing out to eventual MLS Cup winners LAFC.
He won two MLS Player of the Month awards, was voted to the MLS All-Star team, the MLS Best XI, and finished as a runner-up in the MVP voting. Including the playoffs, he scored 25 goals – the most of any player last season.
Sebastián sigue siendo VERDE. pic.twitter.com/aFvtsyrSXJ
— Austin FC (@AustinFC) February 14, 2023
With an xG of 16.5, he overperformed more than anyone in the MLS in 2022, scoring 8.5 goals above expectation. From an advanced midfield position, he recorded a staggering 46 shots on target, the third-highest in the league. He also picked up seven assists.
His creativity and ability to work in congested areas is perhaps his biggest contribution. Last season, he finished in the top 3% of players for line-breaking passes (95), and the top 5% for through balls (50). He also completed 72 take-ons, good for the top 6% of all MLS players.
He built a flourishing partnership with forward Maxi Urruti, who scored nine goals last year. If Josh Wolff continues to develop his forward-thinking approach, their relationship in attacking areas will be a nightmare for defenses all season long.
Fans of Austin FC have a lot to be excited about.
