Austin FC didn’t take long to fill their head coaching vacancy.
Nico Estevez has been hired by the Western Conference club and will officially begin in the role following the November FIFA Window. Estevez, 44, has continued as an assistant coach with the U.S. men’s national team under Mauricio Pochettino.
“We’d like to thank Nico for all his contributions to the program,” U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker said. “He’s a fantastic coach and an even better person. We wish him continued success.”
Estévez last served as a head coach with fellow MLS side FC Dallas, leading them to the playoffs in 2022 and 2023. He registered a 35-32-30 record with FC Dallas during that span.
He also coached in his native Spain with Huracan Valencia, Valencia B, and Valencia’s first team. Estevez’s most famous victory was a 1-0 La Liga victory against European powerhouse Real Madrid.
“Austin is a vibrant city with fantastic music, food, culture, and most importantly, a fanbase that is incredibly passionate about soccer and Austin FC,” said Estévez. “That passion was one of the main reasons why coming to Austin was so exciting to me, and I’m looking forward to growing the team on the field while getting to know our supporters on a personal level. I want to thank Rodolfo and the entire Club for this opportunity.”
Austin FC’s 2025 preseason will officially begin on January 11. The club failed to make the playoffs in 2024, which led to Josh Wolff’s firing as head coach.
