Sebastian Driussi confirms Leeds United interest after signing new Austin FC deal
By Chris Smith
If Austin FC supporters needed any further assurances that Sebastian Driussi was fully committed to the cause, they need only look at the interest he turned his nose up at to sign a new contract.
The Argentine enjoyed an incredible 2022 campaign, notching 22 goals and five assists in 34 regular season appearances to help Austin reach the MLS Cup Playoffs. Only Hany Mukhtar (23) scored more, while Driussi also helped himself to three goals in three post-season matches.
Naturally, Driussi's form led to speculation regarding his future, with Premier League side Leeds United the club most prominently linked. However, in the end, the 27-year-old - who already has European experience with Zenit - opted to stay in Texas, signing a new deal recently through the 2025 season with an option on 2026.
Speaking to reporters in the wake of that contract, Driussi made it clear where his focus has been.
"As you know, there was a very important offer from a club in England," he said. "But, well, my head was always in Austin."
Given their success in 2022 and the Concacaf Champions League campaign that awaits as a reward, Austin head coach Josh Wolff will be understandably delighted by the level of commitment shown by Driussi.
For Wolff, the new contract was merely a signal to his star play of just how much Austin value him.
"There was plenty of interest for Sebastián around the world in many different leagues," Wolff revealed, adding: "I think he was quite honest with us [that] this is where he wanted to be. Ownership recognized that; Anthony Precourt made it a real emphasis in the offseason to get this contract done and get the commitment from the club to him but also Sebastián's commitment to us."