MLS Injury Reports Create Confusion

Austin, TEXAS - Austin FC could begin their fourth season in Major League Soccer without their captain Sebastián Driussi on Saturday against Minnesota United.

According to the league’s MLS Player Status Report announced today, he is listed as questionable due to a "Right Hamstring Irritation". However, the club also released its report on injured players today at 2:31 PM, omitting the names of Driussi and defender Julio Cascante, who apparently suffered a minor injury during preseason.

As far as I understand, the league requires the medical staff of every club to submit their availability report 48 hours before each game, usually before the final training session before the match. Nevertheless, it is only mandatory for players to be classified as "questionable" or "out", and clubs are not obligated to disclose the type of injury or availability issue a player is facing.

What remains in doubt is when the league received their report and whether the player only suffered a minor discomfort during the week.

Interestingly, the 'DP' was among the players selected to speak to the media on Wednesday afternoon. However, for unknown reasons, only coach Josh Wolff and goalkeeper Brad Stuver were available to speak. This might be due to time constraints, as the press conference started more than 10 minutes late. Wolff did mention Driussi, expressing his anticipation for the season opener this Saturday and considering him "the best player in the league".

In case you missed it, Driussi did speak to the media during preseason, emphasizing his goal of competing for the MVP and the Golden Boot while prioritizing the team's success.

He has scored 43 goals in 85 appearances across all competitions wearing the verde and black jersey.