Christopher Applewhite

Joins Austin FC on loan

Applewhite has been acquired on loan by Austin FC from Nashville SC through June 2027, the club announced. The loan includes a purchase option.

Analysis: Applewhite captained the U.S. U-20 team at this past summer's Concacaf U-20 Championship, starting five matches. He came through Nashville's academy and made his MLS NEXT Pro debut in 2024 with affiliate Huntsville City FC, totaling 31 appearances there over three seasons, and he made his first MLS appearance in April 2025, going on to play four more league games and two U.S. Open Cup matches for Nashville. Interim head coach Davy Arnaud pointed to his U-20 tournament form as a key factor behind the move, with the club hoping to continue his development in Austin's environment.