MYRTO UZUNI Austin FC Forward: Impact and Performance Analysis

Myrto Uzuni arrived at Austin FC in January 2025 as a forward, landing on a club-record transfer from Granada CF. The Albanian international signed a three-year deal, bringing his knack for scoring and his flexibility to Major League Soccer.

He can play both center forward and winger, which gives Austin’s attack a much-needed boost. At 29, Uzuni already has a reputation for sharp finishing and clever movement.

He scored regularly in Spain, so a lot of folks see him as one of Austin FC’s headline signings this season. If you want to dig into his background or check his latest stats, head over to Myrto Uzuni’s official page at Austin FC.

Fans can’t wait to see if Uzuni’s European experience translates to the MLS. His move feels like a big moment for both himself and the club as they chase bigger ambitions.

Myrto Uzuni at Austin FC

Uzuni’s arrival at Austin FC made headlines, not just for the record fee but for the buzz around his European résumé. Austin FC made a statement by bringing him in, shining a spotlight on their strategy and how he fits into the MLS puzzle.

Club-Record Transfer Details

Austin FC signed Uzuni from Granada CF in January 2025, dropping a club-record fee to get him. That’s the biggest financial swing the club’s taken so far, and it shows they’re serious about raising their MLS game.

The deal runs through the end of 2027, with an option for 2028. That’s some long-term planning.

Signing Details

• Transfer Fee: Club-record, undisclosed
• Contract Length: 2025-2027 (option for 2028)
• Previous Club: Granada CF
• Age at Signing: 29

Austin FC wanted to step up, so they brought in a veteran with international pedigree. They hope Uzuni boosts their attack and helps put them on the map in a league that’s growing fast.

MLS teams are flexing more muscle these days, and landing someone like Uzuni—who’s scored in Europe and can play multiple spots—backs that up.

Designated Player Status

Uzuni came in as a Designated Player (DP), which means Austin FC can pay him more than the usual MLS salary cap would allow. That’s a big deal in a league where star power matters.

The DP rule gives Austin FC some flexibility with his contract, letting them build a roster around him without worrying as much about cap headaches.

DP Role Breakdown

• Position: Forward / Winger
• Salary Cap Exemption: Yes, under DP rule
• Contract Features: Guaranteed through 2027, club option for 2028

MLS teams only get three DP slots. Uzuni landing one of them says a lot about how much the club values him.

He’s played for Albania and scored plenty in Europe, so the expectations are high. That spotlight can be tough, but it also gives him a real chance to make waves in MLS.

Integration into MLS

Since joining, Uzuni has worked to get used to the MLS style and the rhythm of Austin FC’s squad. He’s played both up top and out wide, and the club leans on him for leadership and goals.

His transition is under the microscope, especially with his big contract and transfer fee.

Early Austin FC Stats Table (Through Spring 2025)

Competition	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
MLS	9	4	2	682
U.S. Open Cup	2	1	1	161

Coaches have praised his movement and work ethic in training. Teammates say he’s professional and willing to adapt to MLS’s physical, travel-heavy grind.

Uzuni’s leadership is becoming part of the team’s identity. For more on his journey, check Myrto Uzuni’s Austin FC profile.

Playing Style and On-Field Impact

Myrto Uzuni brings a ton of energy and can slot into several attacking spots. His game is all about non-stop movement, chasing loose balls, and those flashes of scoring talent—though, let’s be honest, he’s not always the most clinical finisher.

High Work Rate

You can’t miss Uzuni’s engine. He covers ground all game, pressing defenders and tracking back when needed.

He helps with defense, too, not just attack. That’s huge for Austin FC’s pressing game.

His relentless running and pressing make him a headache for defenders. Fans appreciate his hustle, even if it doesn’t always show up on the scoresheet.

Critics have pointed out that all this effort doesn’t always lead to goals, but you can’t knock the commitment.

Finishing Ability

Uzuni’s main job is scoring, but his finishing in MLS has been a mixed bag. He gets into good spots, but putting those chances away hasn’t come easy.

A recent D+ grade summed it up—he’s struggled to deliver as a top striker.

Some numbers from earlier this season: he scored on just 5% of his total shots and 12.5% of his shots on target. That’s way below what you want from a forward.

Stat	Value
Goals Scored	Low
Conversion Rate	5%
Shots on Target Rate	12.5%

He can make great runs and carve out shooting chances, but sometimes he just doesn’t have that calm touch in front of goal.

Versatility in Attack

Austin FC asks Uzuni to play more than one attacking role. He’s started as a center forward and spent a lot of time out wide.

That flexibility lets coaches tweak the lineup based on the opponent.

Switching positions during a match can help the team, and Uzuni’s happy to do it. He stretches defenses as a winger and crashes the box as a striker.

His best moments come when Austin needs speed and quick link-up play. He opens space for others, too.

But bouncing between roles might make it harder for him to settle in and boost his goal tally.

Assist and Goal Contributions

Austin FC brought Uzuni in hoping for goals, but so far he’s contributed more in build-up play and pressing than in raw numbers.

He can pick out teammates with smart passes, but his assist totals haven’t jumped off the page. Most of his value comes earlier in attacking moves.

Fans have noticed the gap between his effort and his stats. For more takes, check out the Reddit discussion.

He runs and supports the attack, even when he’s not scoring or assisting directly. Still, people expect more end product as the season goes on.

Career History Before Austin FC

Myrto Uzuni built his name in Europe before coming to Austin. He played in Spain’s LaLiga, won trophies in Hungary, and started out in Albania and Croatia.

Granada and LaLiga Experience

Uzuni moved to Granada CF in early 2022, leaving Hungary to test himself in Spain. He played in LaLiga and LaLiga 2 with Granada, mostly as a forward and left winger.

During Granada’s 2022-2023 LaLiga 2 campaign, Uzuni stepped up. He scored key goals and created chances, helping Granada finish first and win promotion.

He ended up as one of their top scorers, showing his knack for movement and finishing.

Granada CF Stats

Season	League	Apps	Goals	Assists
2021-22 (2nd half)	LaLiga	17	6	1
2022-23	LaLiga 2	39	23	5
2023-24	LaLiga	31	7	3

Uzuni proved he could hang with some of Spain’s best defenders and make a difference at a high level.

Ferencváros and Hungarian League Success

Before Spain, Uzuni played for Ferencváros, Hungary’s top club. He joined for the 2020-21 season and quickly became a key figure.

Uzuni helped Ferencváros win the Nemzeti Bajnokság I (NB I) title twice. He also got a taste of Champions League group stage action.

His time in Hungary showed he could score and perform on both domestic and European stages.

Ferencváros League Titles

• 2020-21: NB I champions
• 2021-22: NB I champions

He scored over 30 goals in all competitions there, mostly playing wide but always ready to shift around as needed.

Albanian Clubs and Early Development

Uzuni started his pro career in Albania with his hometown club FK Tomori Berat back in 2013. He moved to FK Apolonia for more minutes, then really made his mark with KF Laçi.

At Laçi, his speed and attacking drive caught attention. He helped them reach the Albanian Cup final and qualify for the Europa League.

That success led to a move abroad—he joined NK Lokomotiva Zagreb in Croatia, his first club outside Albania.

Playing in Croatia gave him new challenges and helped him grow against tougher competition. Those early years set the stage for everything that’s come since.

International Career with Albania

Myrto Uzuni has become a steady forward for the Albania national team. His run with Albania includes big moments in World Cup qualifiers and appearances at major European competitions.

National Team Highlights

Let’s talk about Myrto Uzuni’s journey with the Albanian national team. He made his senior debut in 2018, catching the eye with some electric club performances.

Uzuni’s speed and nose for goal quickly earned him a regular spot. You’ll usually see him up front or out wide on the left, and he’s contributed at both ends of the pitch for Albania.

Notable achievements:

• He netted his first national team goal during UEFA Nations League action.
• Played a key role in Albania’s UEFA European Championship qualifying runs.
• The coaches kept calling him up for World Cup and European qualifiers, which says a lot about his value.

Year	Matches Played	Goals	Assists
2018	2	0	0
2019	6	1	2
2020	7	1	1
2021	8	2	3
2022	6	1	1

He’s linked up well with other forwards and presses high up the field, making a real difference in international play.

Key Performances in Major Competitions

Uzuni has scored some clutch goals in the UEFA Nations League and European qualifiers. His time at clubs in Spain, Hungary, and now Austin FC has given him the kind of versatility and calm that every attack needs.

He’s stepped up in big moments, especially during Albania’s 2022 World Cup qualifiers. Those quick runs and sharp finishes? Yeah, they made a mark.

Albania hasn’t made it to the biggest tournaments as often as they’d like, but Uzuni’s importance to the squad keeps growing.

He’s become a go-to guy for Albania in tough matchups against Europe’s best. His experience in the UEFA Europa League taught him how to handle top defenders and find space in even the tightest games.

Transfer Dynamics and Management Perspective

Austin FC went bold by signing Myrto Uzuni. This move shows the club’s desire to shake things up and build a real attacking threat, with strong leadership guiding the way.

Rodolfo Borrell’s Vision

Head coach Rodolfo Borrell put a ton of effort into finding a forward who could score regularly and fit the system. Before Uzuni arrived, Austin just didn’t have that proven international striker.

Borrell had a clear picture: someone quick, technical, and able to both finish and create chances. Uzuni fit the bill, showing he could play through the middle or out wide, just like he did at Granada.

Borrell didn’t just sit back—he got involved in transfer talks and pushed for a clear direction. Convincing the club to splash out a club-record transfer fee of $12.3 million wasn’t just about the now; it was about building a team that can compete for years.

Role of Sporting Director

The Sporting Director got things rolling from the first call to the final signature. Negotiations with Granada CF dragged on, mainly because they needed to work out a fair fee and settle salary expectations for Uzuni.

He balanced input from Borrell, agents, and club execs to keep the deal alive. Salary was a sticking point—reports say Uzuni will be pulling in about $2 million a year, way up from what he made before.

Here’s a quick look at the main numbers:

Attribute	Detail
Player	Myrto Uzuni
Previous Club	Granada CF
Transfer Fee	$12.3 million
Annual Salary	$2 million
Contract Length	Three years (guaranteed)

Austin’s front office worked the phones and planned well, landing Uzuni on better terms than a lot of other clubs chasing him.

Anthony Precourt’s Influence

Anthony Precourt, the big boss at Austin FC, brought the financial muscle and vision to get this deal over the line. He gave the green light on a record-breaking transfer fee—without that, none of this happens.

Precourt’s always aimed to turn Austin into a real force in MLS. He backed this aggressive move, seeing Uzuni as more than just another signing—this was a statement to the league.

His willingness to invest when the right player comes along sets the club apart. By smashing the transfer record, he’s shown Austin means business and isn’t afraid to go toe-to-toe with anyone.

Notable Teammates and Rivalries

Myrto Uzuni’s story at Austin FC isn’t just about his own skills. It’s also about the teammates and rivals who push him and shape his game.

Brandon Vazquez at Austin FC

Brandon Vazquez, Uzuni’s partner up front at Austin FC, has played a huge part in the attack. Vazquez brings a physical edge, while Uzuni’s got that ability to work the wings and switch things up.

They’ve built a real connection, often swapping roles to keep defenders guessing. Vazquez draws defenders out of position, opening up lanes for Uzuni to burst in from wide or make those late runs.

Here’s how they stack up so far in 2024/25:

Player	Goals	Assists	Shots on Target	Key Passes
Myrto Uzuni	9	4	27	21
Brandon Vazquez	7	5	23	16

Their partnership gives Austin’s attack a real edge, helping the team break through even the toughest defenses.

Osman Bukari and Club Connections

Osman Bukari doesn’t play for Austin FC, but there’s a connection worth mentioning. Bukari’s a talented winger, mostly known for his time at Red Star Belgrade.

Uzuni and Bukari have crossed paths in European competitions. Both guys play fast, direct, and with plenty of skill—makes for some great matchups.

They’ve earned respect for their work rate and ability to step up in big games. Whenever their clubs meet, there’s always a little extra spark.

Encounters with Red Star Belgrade

Red Star Belgrade—now there’s a club with history. Massive support, tons of trophies, and a reputation for tough, high-stakes matches.

Uzuni’s faced them several times in UEFA tournaments. These games are intense, with Uzuni often leading the line for his team.

He’s had to adjust to the noise, the pressure, and some very experienced defenders. His strong showings in these matches have boosted his rep around Europe and helped him become a leader at Austin FC.

Fans remember those battles—European football at its best, and Uzuni right in the thick of it.

Achievements and Honors

Myrto Uzuni’s made his mark at both club and international level. He’s not just a scorer—he’s a leader, and he’s picked up his share of silverware and personal accolades along the way.

Golden Boot Winner

Uzuni’s got a real nose for goal. He became Granada CF’s all-time top scorer, racking up 49 goals in just three seasons.

He was a serious Golden Boot contender in Spain’s Segunda División. Let’s take a look at his recent numbers:

Season	Club	League	Goals Scored
2022-23	Granada CF	Segunda División	23
2023-24	Granada CF	La Liga	12

He delivered when it mattered, finishing as Granada’s top scorer season after season. That consistency set him up perfectly for his move to MLS.

League Titles and Promotions

Uzuni played a starring role in getting Granada CF back to La Liga in 2022-23. His goals, especially those late winners, were decisive.

That promotion wasn’t just about the team—it spoke to Uzuni’s mentality and his knack for rising to the occasion. He quickly became a leader in the Granada locker room.

When he joined Austin FC, expectations soared. The record fee and Designated Player tag made it clear: this guy knows how to win and raise the bar.

Noteworthy Milestones

Uzuni’s had his moments with Albania too, scoring important goals in World Cup qualifiers. He found the net during the March internationals, showing he can deliver on the big stage.

At Granada, he didn’t just break records—he became the club’s all-time leading scorer in less than three years. That’s no small feat for a club with over 90 years of history.

He made an instant impact at Austin FC, scoring his debut goal in a tight 1-0 win over St. Louis CITY SC. For the full story on his Austin breakthrough, check out the match recap.

Significant Matches and Competitions

Uzuni’s played in some huge games across Europe and North America. His performances in international tournaments and league play have really shaped his career.

UEFA Champions League Participation

Uzuni’s time in the UEFA Champions League is nothing to sneeze at. With Ferencváros, he grabbed the spotlight by scoring against Juventus in the group stage.

He played key minutes, making an impact at both ends of the pitch. Against teams like Barcelona and Dynamo Kyiv, analysts took note of his work rate and movement.

Ferencváros didn’t make it out of the group, but Uzuni’s performances stood out. His agility and knack for creating chances under pressure earned him plenty of praise.

Those Champions League nights sharpened his tactical sense and decision-making. That experience paved the way for the next steps in his career.

UEFA Europa League Performances

Uzuni logged big minutes in the UEFA Europa League with Granada CF. His best run came when Granada reached the quarterfinals for the first time ever.

He chipped in with goals and assists, especially in the knockout rounds. Uzuni’s ability to play multiple attacking roles gave Granada a real boost.

Granada’s journey ended against Manchester United, but Uzuni’s Europa League record speaks for itself. He proved he could handle the demands of European football, growing in confidence with every match.

Season	Club	Apps	Goals	Assists
2020-21	Granada CF	8	2	2
2021-22	Granada CF	7	1	1

Club World Cup and International Exposure

Uzuni hasn’t made an appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup with any of his clubs, but he’s certainly tested himself on the international stage. With the Albanian national team, he’s gone up against opponents from the UEFA Nations League and World Cup qualifiers—pretty much running the gauntlet all across Europe and sometimes even further afield.

His role with Albania really ramped up during those qualification campaigns. He started in high-pressure matches and chipped in with goals and assists when the team needed them most.

Those performances didn’t just help his country—they also boosted his reputation and set the stage for his club moves, including that big transfer to Austin FC.

Playing against non-European sides and adapting to all sorts of tactical twists has turned Uzuni into a more complete forward. That international exposure? It’s given him a taste for those high-octane, knockout-style games.

Key League Matches

Uzuni has shown up in the biggest league matches, whether it’s Spain’s La Liga or Major League Soccer. Back in his Granada days, he played a key role when the club was fighting to stay up—scoring late winners that kept them alive. Talk about nerves of steel.

Once he landed at Austin FC, Uzuni picked up right where he left off. He scored in his debut and handed out a few assists in those early, crucial wins.

Coaches really liked how fast he adjusted to MLS—he just seemed to get it right away.

If you check the matchday stats, Uzuni keeps popping up as a regular starter. He’s got a strong goal contribution rate and always seems to be involved in those high-stakes moments.

He’s netted important goals in playoff pushes and national derbies—he just finds a way to deliver when the pressure’s on.

Personal Background and Early Life

Myrto Uzuni, now suiting up for Austin FC and Albania, built his soccer skills on local fields and in club academies. His roots? They shaped his approach to the game in ways you can actually see.

Hometown of Berat

Born on May 31, 1995, Uzuni grew up in Berat, Albania. Berat’s famous for its old stone buildings and those scenic Osum River views.

Soccer is a big deal there, and Uzuni’s childhood reflected that love for the game.

He grew up in a close-knit community where teamwork and resilience mattered. With the city being pretty small, most soccer games happened in tight spaces—sometimes on bumpy ground or makeshift pitches in the neighborhood.

That’s where Uzuni picked up his technical skills and learned to adapt, even when things got tricky.

Life in Berat taught him discipline and a serious work ethic. As he moved up the ranks in Albanian soccer, those qualities proved crucial.

Family and local coaches really pushed him to stick with soccer, even when things didn’t look easy.

Youth Development Journey

Uzuni’s youth career kicked off in local academies, where coaches quickly spotted his speed and nose for goal. He spent several years with Tomori Berat, the main club in his hometown.

Tomori’s youth setup put a big emphasis on technical drills, tactical smarts, and working as a unit.

Youth Career Highlights Table

Year	Club	Role
2008-2011	Tomori Berat	Youth Player
2011-2014	Tomori Berat	Senior Debut

Getting early experience in Albania’s leagues, Uzuni faced off against older, more seasoned players. That kind of challenge helped him build confidence with the ball at his feet.

He played mostly as a winger or forward, using his quickness and sharp instincts to stand out. Those early years set him up for bigger moves later in his career, both at club and international level.

Media Presence and Off-The-Field Influence

Myrto Uzuni brings steady media chops and a growing rep as a positive force in Austin FC’s locker room. What he does off the field? It’s quietly shaping his image and setting the tone for younger players at the club.

Public Image and Interviews

Uzuni gives interviews with a straightforward, no-nonsense style. Reporters often mention how he skips the flashy soundbites and sticks to team goals or honest takes on his own play.

After scoring his first Austin FC goal in a 1-0 win over St. Louis FC, he met the press with that calm confidence—crediting teamwork as the key to the win.

That approach has built him a reputation as a steady presence for both media and fans. Uzuni doesn’t go looking for the spotlight, but when he talks, people listen.

Honestly, it’s kind of refreshing these days, when so many athletes seem overly rehearsed.

Fans seem to appreciate his low-key social media updates, too. He mostly posts simple thank-yous or quick notes to supporters.

His following keeps growing, thanks to that mix of humility and consistency. He’s quickly become one of Austin FC’s most respected new guys.

If you want to read more about Uzuni’s confident start at the club, check out the Verde Report’s coverage.

Role Model for Young Players

Let’s talk about Uzuni’s journey to Austin—what a story for young players to follow. He made the leap from Granada CF to MLS, proving you can thrive in a new league if you come in with the right attitude.

He’s always hustling, whether he’s out on the wing or up front, and honestly, that’s the kind of example you want to see. Coaches and teammates all say Uzuni brings it every single day in practice.

Younger guys have noticed how he jumps in to help during training, sometimes working side by side with the less experienced players. That’s helped build a locker room that feels a lot more welcoming.

It’s not just on the field, either. Uzuni gets out into the Austin community, showing up for youth clinics and charity events with Austin FC. Fans see that, and it really boosts the club’s reputation around town.

Here’s a quick look at what he’s done since joining Austin FC:

Statistic	2025 Season
Games Played	15
Goals	5
Assists	4

He’s making an impact that goes way beyond just the games—he’s helping shape the next wave of Austin talent, both on and off the pitch.