HOW ACQUIRED: Signed as a free agent on Jan. 6, 2021.
The former US international will being veteran leadership to the heart of Austin FC's defense after spending 12 seasons at Sporting Kansas City. The long-time SKC captain made a club-record 348 appearances (337 starts) across all competitions, while leading the club in regular-season appearances (294) and starts (285). He is considered one of the best defenders in MLS over recent years and has made 47 appearances for the USMNT.
INTERNATIONAL: Besler was first called up to the full US National Team in 2012, but did not see the field until January, 2013. He started against Mexico in the key March 26, 2013 World Cup Qualifier, and helped the team to a 0-0 draw on the road at the Estadio Azteca. Besler has developed into a quality option for the USMNT. He started all four games at the 2014 World Cup. He has also featured at the 2013 and 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup, as well as the 2016 Copa America Centenario.
COLLEGE: Played four seasons at the University of Notre Dame, receiving All-American and Academic All-American honors as a senior. Named the NSCAA 2008 Senior College Men's Scholar All-America Player of the Year. Was named to the All Big East Team three times, playing in 90 games (73 starts) during his college career. Helped Notre Dame gain four straight berths to the NCAA College Cup tournament, including the program's first two trips to the quarterfinals in 2006 and 2007.
NOTES: MLS Defender of the Year in 2012... Named to the MLS Best XI in both 2012 and 2013... Five-time MLS All-Star (2011, 2013-2016).
