Sporting KC

The One With Diego Rubio

Austin FC is headed to the 2025 MLS playoffs. A key reason for that is Diego Rubio. The veteran stepped into a bigger-than-anticipated role after Brandon Vázquez’s season-ending injury. Rubio turned pro at age 17 in his native Chile. His passion to compete and penchant for scoring goals got the attention of the Chilean National Team. He played for clubs in Portugal, Spain, Kansas City, and Denver before joining Austin FC last year. Rubio joins hosts Jimmy Maas and Juan Diego Garcia to talk about his maturation as a player, the importance of family, and building a legacy.

¡Vamos Verde! is a listener-supported production of KUT & KUTX Studios in Austin, Texas. You can help make this podcast happen by donating at supportthispodcast.org.

The Second One With Ilie Sanchez

Austin FC’s captain Ilie Sanchez talks about his departure from Barcelona’s bubble, his relationship with then-Barça B manager Luis Enrique, and the decisions that led him to Major League Soccer and Austin.

The First One With Ilie Sánchez

Defensive midfielder Ilie Sanchez’s career includes an MLS Cup and an All-Star Game appearance. But his start in professional soccer came with his hometown club, a little neighborhood club called F.C. Barcelona. In the first episode of a two-part interview, the Austin FC captain talks about his many sides, gives little life lessons he has picked up, and espouses the importance of “context.”