Sources: CPL veteran Austin Ricci garnering interest on the open market
CPL veteran Austin Ricci is on the open market, with multiple CPL clubs expressing interest, sources told The Wanderers Notebook on Saturday.
Ricci, a native of Richmond Hill, Ont., has made 87 appearances across all competitions for CPL clubs since 2019. The 28-year old has suited up for Valour FC, York United and, most recently, Vancouver FC. He spent the lion's share of his career with the Nine Stripes where he was a staple of former head coach Martin Nash, telling The Northern Tribune earlier this year that he “loved” his time playing in Ontario.
However, with York United under new ownership and Benjamín Mora replacing Nash in May, Ricci fell out of favour, frequently deployed as a winger or out wide versus his preferred role as a striker. He’s stated previously he feels his combination of physicality and drive make him a good fit upfront. Ricci was later transferred to Vancouver FC late into the 2024 season and played three matches with them to close out the year, narrowly missing the playoffs. His contract with them only carried through 2024.
A mean attacker, Ricci has a history of contributing on both sides of the ball, registering 16 goals and six assists while earning a reputation for unnerving opponents. But with the CPL’s free agent frenzy only in its early stage, it remains to be seen where Ricci will land.
Cover Photo Credit: Beau Chevalier / Vancouver FC
