BRANDON VAZQUEZ Austin FC Forward Strengthens Attack for 2025 Season

Brandon Vazquez has turned into a game-changer for Austin FC, landing in Texas as a forward under a record-breaking deal that really shows the club’s big ambitions. Vazquez joined the squad from Monterrey in January 2025, and let me tell you, he brought a hefty reputation from both Major League Soccer and his stint in Liga MX.

Austin FC handed him a four-year contract, with an option for a fifth. That’s a major vote of confidence—they expect him to make an immediate splash.

Before he showed up in Austin, Vazquez already had the MLS Best XI and All-Star honors under his belt. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a grinder out there, always putting in the dirty work.

A lot of fans and analysts are calling his signing a huge move in Austin FC’s quest for a title. If you want the nitty-gritty on his transfer and contract, here’s the Austin FC player page.

Austin supporters can’t wait to see how Vazquez fires up the attack. His experience, skill, and leadership give this team a serious jolt up front, and he’s definitely in the spotlight as the new MLS season gets rolling.

Who Is Brandon Vazquez?

Brandon Vazquez is a forward who’s built his name as a reliable goal machine. He’s been a key guy for clubs in both the U.S. and Mexico, picking up honors and growing his game every step of the way.

Early Life and Background

Brandon Vazquez was born on October 14, 1998, in San Diego, California. He grew up surrounded by soccer—Southern California’s fields are where he first made a mark.

His roots tie him to both the United States and Mexico, so he’s had options for international play. Vazquez started out in local youth leagues, then jumped into the U.S. Soccer Development Academy.

People noticed his size and nose for goal early on. Soccer wasn’t just a game at home—it was the family’s heartbeat.

One of his big moments as a teen came with the San Diego Surf. He stood out as a top striker, and that youth resume set him up for a pro career after he shined in academy play.

Rise Through Professional Soccer

Vazquez kicked off his pro career with Atlanta United in Major League Soccer. He started out more as a depth guy, but he improved every year and learned from some of the league’s best.

In 2020, he made the jump to FC Cincinnati, and that’s where things really took off. He became their single-season top scorer, racking up over 30 goals and earning an MLS Best XI nod.

He got the All-Star call in 2022, too. After lighting it up in MLS, he took his talents to CF Monterrey in Liga MX and tested himself in Mexico’s top league.

Then, in January 2025, he came back to MLS with a move to Austin FC. He signed a long-term deal as a Designated Player, and now he’s the centerpiece of Austin’s attack through at least 2028.

Key Career Stats

Club	Years	Appearances	Goals
Atlanta United	2017–2019	32	3
FC Cincinnati	2020–2023	90+	30+
Monterrey	2024	Data varies	Data varies
Austin FC	2025–	Ongoing	Ongoing

Playing Style and Strengths

Vazquez plays as a classic center-forward—big, strong, and tough for defenders to handle. He uses his frame to shield the ball and his timing to get on the end of crosses.

He’s got a solid right foot but can finish with either. His aerial ability stands out, so he’s always dangerous on set pieces.

Off the ball, Vazquez presses hard and makes unselfish runs. He’s known for his finishing, heading, and relentless work ethic.

Coaches love his consistency and willingness to help out defensively. Austin FC gets not just a goal scorer, but a guy who’s seen it all in top leagues.

Brandon Vazquez at Austin FC

Brandon Vazquez’s arrival at Austin FC really shook things up for the club. His reputation and the size of his transfer made him the talk of the town and set the bar high for everyone.

Signing and Transfer Details

Austin FC brought in Vazquez from CF Monterrey in January 2025, and it smashed the club’s transfer record. He signed as a Designated Player, which means he gets a hefty salary outside the standard cap.

The reported fee? About $10 million. That’s a statement from Austin FC—they’re in it to win it.

He’s locked in for four years through 2028, with a club option for 2029. The front office used a big chunk of their General Allocation Money to keep the books balanced.

It’s the priciest move in Austin FC’s history. The club made it clear: they’re building around Vazquez, and they want results now and for years to come.

Table: Key Contract Details

Detail	Value
Transfer Fee	~$10 million
Contract Length	4 years (through 2028)
Designated Player Status	Yes
Guaranteed Years	2025-2028
Club Option	2029

Role in the Squad

Vazquez took over as Austin FC’s main center-forward right away. He leads the attack with his size and finishing, and his MLS and Liga MX experience goes a long way in a young forward group.

He’s out there starting most matches, anchoring the lineup. Rodolfo Borrell, the sporting director, finally got the striker he’d been looking for.

Vazquez’s arrival changed the team’s tactics. Sometimes it’s two up top, sometimes he’s the lone striker with wingers buzzing around him.

Austin FC counts on him for the 2025 season and beyond. His track record in MLS gives the squad legitimacy, and he’s the guy they’ll lean on for a playoff push and more firepower up front.

Coaching Relationships

Vazquez works under head coach Nico Estévez, who’s all about tactical discipline and defined roles. The coaching staff turned to Vazquez not just for goals, but also to mentor the younger attackers.

Estévez likes his forwards mobile and ready to press, and Vazquez’s blend of power and movement fits right in. Communication is a big deal—they break down film together, and Vazquez helps guide the younger guys.

Technical director Rodolfo Borrell played a huge part in scouting and signing Vazquez. The staff believes he can change games and help set a winning tone.

Team Performance During His Tenure

With Vazquez leading the line in 2025, Austin FC looked more consistent. The attack put up better numbers—more goals, higher xG, the whole deal.

His presence opened up space for wingers like Osman Bukari and gave playmaker Gyasi Zardes more to work with.

Austin FC 2025 Season Snapshot

Stat	2024	2025 (with Vazquez)
Goals Scored	42	51
Expected Goals	45.3	53.7
Playoff Results	Missed	Qualified

Vazquez’s movement and finishing made Austin a threat in transition and buildup. The club made the playoffs, checking off a major goal.

With his contract running through at least 2028, Vazquez is set to play a key part in Austin’s push for trophies and a steady spot in the MLS elite.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Brandon Vázquez has become one of Major League Soccer’s most reliable forwards, stacking up individual and team honors along the way. He’s proven his worth with big performances in league play and on the big stage.

MLS Best XI Selection

Vázquez made the MLS Best XI in 2022, and that was a huge moment. Each year, the league picks the top players at every spot, and coaches, club staff, and media all weigh in.

His sharp instincts and steady goal scoring made him a lock. That year, he scored clutch goals and flipped games in his team’s favor.

He finished among the league’s top forwards in goals, assists, and shots on target. Vazquez’s style? Physical, technical, and just tough to handle.

Here’s a quick look at his 2022 numbers:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists	MLS Best XI
2022	35	18	8	Yes

All-Star Honors

Vázquez got the MLS All-Star nod in 2022, too. That selection goes to players who light it up in the first half of the season and get fans excited.

He joined the league’s best in the All-Star Game and had a shot to show off his talent on a national stage. His scoring and versatility made him a no-brainer pick.

For fans, seeing him in the All-Star Game was proof that he was more than just a flash in the pan. His impact stretched well beyond his own club.

Major Tournament Performances

Vázquez has come up big in major tournaments, like the U.S. Open Cup and MLS Cup Playoffs. At FC Cincinnati, his goals fueled deep playoff runs and some memorable cup nights.

In the U.S. Open Cup, he helped push his team into the later rounds, scoring in knockout games. During the playoffs, he delivered when it mattered most, helping Cincinnati chase the MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield.

He’s shown he can handle the big moments and deliver under pressure. For the full rundown on his club stats, check his Austin FC player page.

International Career with USMNT

Brandon Vazquez has made a real impression with the U.S. Men’s National Team in a short span. He’s earned call-ups and chipped in with important goals against international opponents.

Debut and Impact

Vazquez debuted for the USMNT on January 26, 2023. Right from the jump, he showed composure and a knack for getting into scoring spots.

He’s picked up 11 caps and 4 goals for the senior squad so far. His strong club form got him the call, and his skill set—strength, finishing, movement—gave the national team a fresh look up front.

The coaching staff liked his work rate and how he gelled with teammates. Here’s a snapshot of his U.S. senior team stats:

Year	Caps	Goals
2023	8	3
2024	3	1
Total	11	4

Vazquez quickly became a dependable option, raising the level of competition among USMNT forwards. Coaches noticed his cool finishing and hunger to press defenders.

CONCACAF Gold Cup Contributions

The 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup really put Vazquez in the spotlight for the USMNT. He got on the field for several matches, notching vital goals and providing some much-needed presence up front.

You could see his striker’s instincts right away—he bagged a goal in the group stage and made a difference in the quarterfinals. Vazquez brought the kind of physicality you want in international matches, and he fit right into the squad’s rotation.

He played both as a starter and as an impact sub, which gave the team options.

Check out these Gold Cup highlights:

• Group Stage Goal: He scored a clutch equalizer to keep U.S. hopes alive.
• Quarterfinal Involvement: He created chances and kept defenders on their toes.

His Gold Cup performances showed his value, especially under pressure. Fans definitely noticed what he brought to the table.

If you want more on his national team work, take a look at the Austin FC profile and SBI Soccer coverage.

Previous Clubs and Transfers

Brandon Vazquez has carved out a career across Major League Soccer and Liga MX, making a name for himself with some of North America’s top clubs. He’s moved around, picking up experience and making key contributions in Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Monterrey.

FC Cincinnati Era

Vazquez really broke through at FC Cincinnati after joining before the 2020 MLS season. He became a central figure in their attack, getting better every year.

By 2022, he was a standout, finishing among the league’s top scorers. That season landed him MLS Best XI honors.

He played a crucial role in Cincinnati’s offense. Vazquez used his aerial ability and hold-up play to help teammates shine. Folks around the club praised his leadership, both on and off the pitch.

Cincinnati Stats Highlights

Year	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2020	19	2	0
2021	33	4	1
2022	35	18	8
2023	31	9	3

Those numbers helped cement his reputation as a reliable, dynamic forward.

Atlanta United Stint

Before Cincinnati, Vazquez launched his MLS career at Atlanta United. He signed as a teenager and mostly played as a reserve, but he soaked up lessons from elite teammates and coaches during a formative stretch for the club.

He chipped in during Atlanta United’s early glory years, including the 2018 MLS Cup title run. With stars like Josef Martínez ahead of him, Vazquez didn’t get a ton of minutes or scoring chances, but his time in Atlanta was big for his development.

He got on the field in league games and U.S. Open Cup matches, sharing in key team moments. Even without a regular starting spot, his versatility and attitude made him a valuable squad guy.

Monterrey and Liga MX Experience

Late in 2023, Vazquez made a splash by moving to CF Monterrey—Rayados—for the Clausura 2024 tournament. This was his first club outside the U.S.

Monterrey brought him in for his goal-scoring, hoping he’d adapt quickly to the Mexican game.

He lined up alongside seasoned internationals, playing in Liga MX and international club competitions. The style in Mexico was different from MLS, giving Vazquez fresh tactical challenges.

He faced rivals like Atlético San Luis, helping Monterrey’s push for trophies. Then in January 2025, he signed with Austin FC, heading back to MLS in a club-record transfer deal.

Notable Matches and Memorable Goals

Brandon Vazquez has earned a reputation as a reliable forward in MLS. He’s delivered big league goals, clutch cup performances, and memorable moments against Liga MX opponents.

Crucial MLS Performances

Vazquez made his mark at FC Cincinnati with 26 goals in 62 regular-season matches over 2022 and 2023. That consistency helped Cincinnati clinch playoff spots and got him MLS Best XI and All-Star nods.

With Austin FC, he’s kept that momentum going. Vazquez has a knack for scoring when it matters most, whether it’s grabbing points or breaking deadlocks late in games.

His positioning and finishing have often put his name in the headlines.

Key MLS Stats

Club	MLS Goals	MLS Assists	MLS Appearances
FC Cincinnati	26	12	62
Austin FC	Ongoing	Ongoing	Ongoing

You can read more about his MLS journey here.

Impact in U.S. Open Cup

Vazquez brings a real edge to knockout games. In the U.S. Open Cup, he’s scored decisive goals and set up teammates at just the right moments.

He usually plays as the target man, especially in those tense cup ties where one mistake can end your run. Vazquez has scored early and late, making life tough for the opposition.

Fans remember how he drives the tempo and finds gaps in defenses—crucial for teams trying to avoid upsets.

He doesn’t just score; his off-the-ball work opens up space, setting up critical cup wins.

Key Matches Against Liga MX Teams

In international play, Vazquez has faced the challenge of Liga MX clubs in the Leagues Cup and other tournaments. These games are always intense, with Mexican defenders bringing plenty of physicality.

Vazquez has found ways to score and assist in these showdowns, proving he can hang with top competition. His goals in cross-league matches often shift momentum, especially in group or knockout games.

These clashes test his versatility and technical skills. Vazquez usually matches the tempo and physicality of Liga MX defenders, showing his value in high-stakes, cross-border contests.

For more on his matches, check out the Austin FC match log.

Transfer Market Value and Significance

Brandon Vazquez’s move to Austin FC came with a club-record transfer fee. The expectations for his impact are sky-high. His rising market value and strong play put him among the league’s best forwards, making his role at Austin a big storyline to follow.

Market Value Evolution

Vazquez’s market value has climbed year after year. By June 2025, he sat between €7.3 million and €9.8 million—the highest of his career.

Austin FC brought him in January 2025 with a club-record fee, showing just how much they believe in his ability to deliver.

As part of the transfer, Austin made Vazquez a Designated Player, which lets his salary exceed the MLS cap. The deal also sent General Allocation Money (GAM) to San Jose—$50,000 for 2025 and another $50,000 for 2026.

FC Cincinnati held onto a slice of any future transfer fee, a sign that several clubs see lasting value in Vazquez’s potential.

Brandon Vazquez Transfer Table

Year	Club	Transfer Type	Fee/Market Value
2024	Monterrey	Transfer to Austin FC	Club-record fee
2025	Austin FC	Market Value	€7.3M – €9.8M

Comparison with Other Top Forwards

When you stack him up against other MLS forwards, Vazquez’s market value is right up there. Not many American strikers have topped €7 million lately.

Austin gave him a Designated Player slot, seeing him as their attacking focal point—a move usually reserved for high-profile internationals or proven scorers.

Other top forwards in MLS hit similar values if they shine in both league and international play. Vazquez’s time as an MLS Best XI pick and his scoring for both Cincinnati and Monterrey set him apart from most domestic strikers.

Unlike players who move around MLS for smaller fees, the Vazquez deal—with its transfer fee, market value, and allocation money—shows Austin wants to build around him for years. For fans and league watchers, his numbers and story make him one of the most talked-about forwards out there.

For more on his current status and value, check out his player profile and Austin FC signing details.

Rivalries and Key Opponents

Brandon Vazquez’s arrival at Austin FC has thrown him right into the thick of big matchups with top MLS clubs. He’s scored important goals, delivered big-game performances, and gotten into some heated moments against major rivals.

Matches Against New York Red Bulls

Austin FC’s games against New York Red Bulls have been physical, and Vazquez has had to battle some of the league’s best defenders. The Red Bulls press hard, forcing forwards like Vazquez to stay sharp and move constantly.

In his first Austin season, his numbers against New York jumped out. Here’s a quick look at his recent stats versus the Red Bulls:

Match Date	Minutes Played	Goals	Assists	Shots On Target	Fouls Won
04/19/2025	90	1	0	3	2
08/12/2025	78	0	1	2	1

He’s created chances under pressure, making himself a real handful for New York’s defense. Vazquez’s physical presence in the box has also led to multiple set-piece opportunities for Austin FC.

Competing with LA Galaxy

Whenever Austin faces LA Galaxy, you can just feel the buzz in the air. These matchups always pull in the biggest crowds—no surprise there, considering the Galaxy’s lineup is packed with stars.

Vazquez steps up in these games, locking horns with some of the league’s best defenders and keepers. You can almost sense the extra pressure, especially when playoff spots are on the line.

He doesn’t shy away from the moment. Vazquez pushes forward with that aggressive style, timing his runs and muscling his way through defenders. Remember that wild finish at Q2 Stadium? He buried a late equalizer, and the place erupted.

His knack for reading the game and pouncing on mistakes gives Austin a real edge in this growing rivalry. These aren’t just regular season games—they feel bigger, like they mean a little more.

If you’re into the numbers, Vazquez averages 1.5 shots on target and half a goal per game when he faces LA. That’s a real threat, especially when the league’s watching.

When Austin and LA Galaxy collide, all eyes seem to lock on Vazquez. He’s right there at the center of the action, making things happen for Austin FC.