Austin FC acquire veteran F Christian Ramirez off waivers

(Reuters) - Austin FC claimed forward Christian Ramirez off waivers from the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Ramirez started the Galaxy's CONCACAF Champions Cup match against Academia de Futbol Sporting San Miguelito on Feb. 19. He was waived two days later, with the Galaxy exercising a buyout.

"Christian is widely respected around Major League Soccer as both a player and as a person," Austin FC sporting director Rodolfo Borrell said in a statement. "He is an excellent addition to our group of forwards and we're very happy to have him in Austin this season."

The MLS veteran, who turns 35 in April, has spent time with Minnesota United (2017-18), Los Angeles FC (2018-19), the Houston Dynamo (2019-21), the Columbus Crew (2023-24) and the Galaxy, whom he joined in 2025. He had four goals and one assist in 25 matches in his lone season there.

Ramirez has tallied 55 goals and 17 assists in 185 career regular-season games (121 starts). He's added another four goals in eight playoff appearances.

"Austin FC has created one of the most exciting soccer communities since its inauguration and continues to be ambitious in being a contender on all fronts. My family and I can't wait to meet everyone and be a part of this Club," Ramirez said in a statement. "I'm thankful for this opportunity and excited to contribute my part to an already talented group that we hope can do big things this season."