Austin FC waives Emiliano Rigoni according to report

Emiliano Rigoni is no longer with Austin FC after being released on Monday, according to a report from Tom Bogert and Paul Tenorio of The Athletic.

Rigoni, an Argentine who was sensationally signed on a transfer from Brazilian Serie A club São Paulo in July 2022, has largely disappointed with the club with six goals and six assists in 58 appearances.

One of the club’s designated players whose current salary it is more than 2 million dollarsthe move is likely salary-driven as Bogert reportedly has a clause in his contract that automatically triggers through 2025 if he makes 12 appearances this season.

Oregoni started and played the full game Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Houston at Q2 Stadium, making his 11th appearance of the season, and did not play in Saturday’s 3-2 home win against Kansas City.

He can be claimed by any MLS team on waivers in the next 48 hours, but that team must be willing to take a portion of his salary against his cap. If he returns to South America, another international club or takes the rest of the year off, it appears Austin FC could be willing to pay him anywhere from $940,000 to $1.2 million.

This article originally appeared in the Austin American-Statesman: Austin FC waives Emiliano Rigoni according to report