New stars in spotlight as Minnesota United visit Austin FC

Austin FC and Minnesota United will look to get off the right foot and build team chemistry after offseason changes when they meet in Saturday's season opener in the Texas capital.

Austin aims to build on a sixth-place finish in the Western Conference last season and its second-ever playoff appearance last season with a revamped lineup led by Facundo Torres, the former Orlando City winger acquired from Brazilian side Palmeiras as their designated player.

There are a number of reasons to feel upbeat about Austin's prospects based on its postseason berth and a U.S. Open Cup final appearance in 2025. But the Verde will likely be a work in progress until they get star midfielder Owen Wolff (sports hernia) and striker Brandon Vazquez (knee) healthy and in condition to contribute.

Austin won just one of six preseason games. In order to improve, the club has to find the net more after producing the fewest goals in the West (37) last year.

"We are still developing how we are going to play," coach Nico Estevez said. "We have some new players that are fitting, and you can see glimpses of what we want to see in the team, but also, the inconsistency in doing that."

The Loons head to Austin with a new offensive threat as well.

Colombian megastar James Rodriguez could make his MLS debut in Saturday's match, joining Minnesota after playing last year with Club Leon in Liga MX. Rodriguez has suited up for of the likes of Real Madrid in Spain's La Liga, Bayern Munich in the German Bundesliga, AS Monaco in France's Ligue 1 and Everton in the English Premier League.

"I've been in top leagues, but I wanted to play in this league," Rodriguez said. "When the chance arose with this great club, things were progressing a bit slowly, but it happened. Both sides made an effort and when a club trusts you, you have to give it your all so everyone feels good. That's why I'm here, to help and hopefully win things."

Minnesota also has a new last line of defense with goalkeeper Drake Callender, who was acquired via trade with Charlotte FC in the offseason.

Cameron Knowles has taken the coaching reins from the departed Eric Ramsay and is assisted by former Austin head man Josh Wolff. Knowles briefly served as interim coach ahead of Ramsay's arrival in March 2024, so there is a bit of familiarity with his style and expectations.

A full third of the Minnesota United roster was turned over in the past four months from a team that finished fourth in the West and advanced to the conference semifinals where it fell to upstart San Diego FC.

--Field Level Media