In a deal that was only a matter of time, Austin reached an agreement on Friday to sign linebacker Thomas Pochettino.
Pochettino, who was named to El Tri in 2021 and was loaned to Atlético River Plate in Argentina last year, will spend the upcoming season in Brazil’s top flight Fortaleza Esport.
He was largely unimpressed on the field for Austin during his 31 appearances, making his future with the club unlikely, especially as a designated player.
Pochettino returned to El Tri this winter after his loan at River Plate expired, but it would be a surprise for him to be at the club for a training camp that opens on Monday at St. David’s Performance Center.
Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed.
El Tree Preseason Plans: Details of Austin’s preseason were also revealed on Friday, with the club set to play four exhibition games and spend 11 days of training in Florida.
El Tree will spend its first week in Austin, then January 16-27 in Florida, spending a week at the IMG Academy and a few days in Orlando.
The Austin will play the Philadelphia Union on Jan. 21 in Bradenton and then play the Cincinnati on Jan. 27 in Clearwater, the last day of their trip to Florida.
When he returns to Austin, he will play USL Championship El Paso Locomotive on February 4 and Louisville City FC on February 11 at St. David’s Performance Center.
El Tri will open the MLS regular season on February 25 at Q2 Stadium against expansion team St. Louis City.
