It’s been less than a year since Spaniard Nico Estévez joined Austin FC having previously coached the other Texan side in the league, FC Dallas.
The Valencia native was selected to lead the MLS team for the 2025 All-Star Game that will be played at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas on Wednesday night.
The event is always one of the most anticipated of the summer soccer season, especially due to the recent tensions that have characterized the sport in Mexico and the United States.
The coach will have the responsibility of forming a competitive XI to defend the honor of MLS and he will pick 12 players, while another 12 will be involved via a fan-vote system. MLS commissioner Don Garber is also permitted to call upon two players to participate in the All-Star game.
A touch of Austin, Messi and limitations
Among the players called up by Estévez is the Austin FC goalkeeper Brad Stuver, ensuring a local presence and a direct connection with the home fans. The match will not only represent a competitive challenge, but will also be the first All-Star Game played in Austin, marking a milestone for one of the most passionate soccer venues in the USA.
Ahead of the All-Star Game, Estévez spoke to the media and was asked as to what it’s like to coach a group made up of stars?
The Spaniard replied: “we have to understand that these players are loaded with games; not just the ones they played before, but the ones that come after. We have a responsibility to take care of these players’ physical health.”
“It’s about building cohesion within the group so they can compete but also have fun. We want to give it a more game-like feel so they can interact, because that’s what soccer is all about.”
Estévez clarified that those players who have games scheduled for this Friday will be on the pitch for approximately 30 minutes, while those who play Saturday games will have an extension of 40/45 minutes.
Based on the roster, Orlando’s Alex Freeman is expected to be in the game for a short time, as is LAFC striker Bouanga. If he joins, Leo Messi, Evander, and Wagner could play 45 minutes.
Mutual growth
In addition to the sporting excitement, the 2025 All-Star Game will showcase the growth of North American soccer, both in talent and style of play. Estévez will look to give his team a clear identity: possession, high pressure, and offensive aggressiveness, principles he has promoted with Austin FC since his arrival.
With his sights set on revenge —after Liga MX’s victory in the previous edition—, Nicolás Estévez now leads the MLS team that promises to deliver much in terms of excitement as the rivalry between the two leagues shows no signs of waning.
“In the history of sports, it’s always important to have a rival, because it helps you grow and become better. What MLS has been doing in recent years is opening the eyes of Liga MX to improve in certain aspects; the longer this rivalry continues, the better for both sides,” he said without hesitation.