Akil Watts#20 from St. Louis City SC Reveals Hilarious Half‑Time Habit That Will Leave Fans in Stitches!
When you watch St. Louis CITY SC, Akil Watts is a name that just pops out. He wears the number 20 shirt and brings a kind of versatility and consistency that’s rare, especially for such a young club still figuring itself out.
You get a midfielder who can also step in at right back, which adds real depth and reliability. That’s not something every team can say about their squad.
Watts grew up in Fort Wayne and sharpened his game at IMG Academy. He spent some time with RCD Mallorca and later Louisville City. You can see how he’s always worked on improving. While playing for CITY2, he created plenty of chances and even finished with the most assists during their first MLS NEXT Pro season.
That steady progress landed him a first-team contract with St. Louis CITY SC. His tactical flexibility keeps paying off.
He values every minute on the pitch and makes them count. At 25, Watts has already racked up solid minutes in both midfield and defense. He adapts to whatever the squad needs.
His background with the U.S. Youth National Teams and his time in both Spain and the USL have given him a strong foundation. That experience translates well in MLS.
Contents
Player Overview
You really get to know a player by looking at his journey, his role, and his physical profile. Akil Watts’ career blends youth international experience, time in Europe, and steady growth in the American pro system.
Full Name and Background
Akil Amen-Diop Watts was born on February 4, 2000, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He came up through the U.S. youth system and played for the United States at the U-17 level, including the 2017 CONCACAF U-17 Championship and FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Before turning pro, Watts spent time in Spain with RCD Mallorca. That gave him a real taste of European competition. He later returned to the U.S. and signed with Louisville City FC in the USL Championship, making his debut in 2019.
He also played college soccer at the University of Portland. That helped him polish his technical skills and develop his tactical awareness. His mix of international, college, and pro experience shaped him into a versatile midfielder who can adjust to different systems.
Playing Position and Jersey Number
You usually see Watts as a midfielder, but he’s flexible enough to take on other roles. Early on, he played right back, though midfield has always felt like his true spot.
For St. Louis CITY SC, he’s the guy in the number 20 jersey. That number’s become his marker at the MLS level, and you’ll find him contributing on both ends of the pitch.
Watts’ run with CITY2 in MLS NEXT Pro really showed off his playmaking. He led the team with seven assists in 2022 and chipped in six goals. He stayed consistent with his minutes, too—always available, always fit.
Key Stats from CITY2 (2022 season):
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 24 |
| Starts | 23 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Minutes Played | 2053 |
Physical Attributes
Watts stands at 5-foot-11, which is solid for a midfielder. His build lets him compete in the air and stay nimble in tight spots.
At 25, he’s hitting his athletic prime. You’ll notice his pace and stamina most when he covers ground in midfield. He tracks back on defense and then surges forward to join the attack—all without losing a step.
That work rate makes coaches trust him for balance between defense and transition play. Watts doesn’t rely on brute strength. Instead, he uses positioning, anticipation, and quick feet to win challenges and keep the ball moving.
He’s not flashy, but he’s efficient. That combo of athleticism and awareness lets him handle high-pressure situations. For a guy with experience at different levels, his physical strengths and tactical understanding make him a steady presence in St. Louis CITY SC’s system.
Role at St. Louis City SC
Akil Watts brings depth and flexibility to St. Louis City SC. He’s got experience from both the U.S. and abroad, which shows every time he steps on the field.
Signing and Contract Details
St. Louis City SC offered Watts a first-team deal after he impressed with CITY2 in MLS NEXT Pro. He started his contract in 2023, set up as a one-year agreement with club options for the next three years. This lets the club keep control but also gives Watts a chance to prove himself in MLS.
Before joining the first team, Watts played for RCD Mallorca in Spain and Louisville City FC in the USL Championship. He then became a key figure for CITY2, logging over 2,000 minutes in their debut season. Those 7 assists and 6 goals made him one of their most reliable players.
The front office saw his signing as a low-risk, high-reward move. By bringing him up from CITY2, they got someone who already knew the system and culture. That pathway fits how St. Louis City wants to develop talent from within.
Squad Integration
Watts shows up on the roster as a midfielder, but his versatility extends to right-back. That flexibility has earned him minutes in different roles, depending on what the team needs.
His jump from CITY2 to the senior team went smoothly because he’d already worked with the coaching staff. Knowing the tactical setup meant he could contribute right away, without a long adjustment period.
Here’s a snapshot of his CITY2 season that led to his promotion:
| Season | Club | Matches | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | CITY2 (MLSNP) | 24 | 6 | 7 | 2053 |
He contributed on both sides of the ball, making him more than just a depth piece. He became a dependable option.
Jersey Number Significance
Watts wears the number 20 jersey for St. Louis City SC. Squad numbers sometimes have personal meaning, but for him, it mostly came down to what was available and what fit.
You’ll spot number 20 in both midfield and defensive roles—a real testament to his adaptability. For fans, the jersey number helps cement his spot in the squad, even if he’s not always grabbing headlines.
In a club still building its traditions, every number starts to mean something through performance. Watts’ steady contributions give number 20 a reputation for hard work and versatility. That seems just right for a player known for reliability.
Midfield and Defensive Contributions
Akil Watts gives you a steady hand in both midfield and defensive roles. He’s played right back, but he really likes central midfield, and that flexibility helps the team.
Midfield Role and Responsibilities
When Watts lines up in midfield, he looks comfortable on the ball. He likes to play in central areas, distributing passes and linking play between defense and attack.
His time at IMG Academy built a strong technical base, and you can see it when he keeps possession under pressure.
He also helps with chance creation. In a recent match, he put up 0.42 expected assists, made a key pass, and generated a big chance. That shows he understands timing and positioning in the buildup.
He’s not a big scorer, but he controls the middle third. His movement in front of the back line brings balance, especially when playing next to an attack-minded midfielder like Edu Löwen.
Defensive Performance
On defense, Watts brings a solid work rate and sharp awareness. He logged over 1,900 minutes for St. Louis City SC, much of it at right back. He stayed disciplined, tracking runners and closing down space.
His defensive stats stand out: 2 interceptions and 3 tackles in the season opener under coach Olof Mellberg. Those plays helped limit a team that had scored seven goals in their previous meetings.
Watts doesn’t just rely on strength. He positions himself well and reads the game to cut off passing lanes. That makes him effective in systems built on compactness and team defending.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Minutes Played | 1,900+ |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Tackles | 3 |
| Expected Assists | 0.42 |
Versatility Between Positions
The team gets a real boost from Watts’ ability to switch between midfield and defense. He sees himself as a midfielder, but he’s spent plenty of time at right back, especially when injuries or tactical tweaks called for it.
That flexibility gives coaches more options. Need extra cover on the wing? Watts can handle it. Want more stability in central midfield? He’s ready to step in.
He’s also built good chemistry with teammates, especially Tomas Totland on the right. Their overlapping runs and rotations show how Watts adapts to different tactical asks without missing a beat.
This versatility makes him a valuable squad player, able to adjust to the flow of a game or a season’s demands.
Career Progression
Akil Amen-Diop Watts built his career on steady development, moving from youth academies to professional clubs in both the U.S. and abroad. His journey mixes domestic and international experience, giving you a sense of how he became such a reliable option for St. Louis City SC.
Youth and Early Career
You first notice Watts’ rise in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he was born in 2000. His early soccer days took off at IMG Academy and then the Portland Timbers Academy—both places known for producing pros. These programs shaped his technical skills and positional flexibility.
Watts joined the U.S. U-17 residency program, putting him in a high-level environment against top international talent. That experience proved valuable early on.
He took an uncommon route for an American player by signing with RCD Mallorca in Spain. That move showed he wasn’t afraid to push himself in a European setting.
His stint in Spain, though short, helped him adjust to faster play and tougher tactics. That set the stage for his return to the U.S. and his start in the pro ranks.
Professional Clubs Before St. Louis City SC
Before he joined St. Louis, Watts spent time with Louisville City FC in the USL Championship. He signed in August 2019 and, just two weeks later, stepped onto the field for his professional debut—a 1-1 draw against Indy Eleven.
At Louisville, Watts got a firsthand look at the demands of senior-level soccer. The league sits between academy and MLS, so it’s a real test for young players. His solid performances there opened the door to St. Louis CITY2 in MLS NEXT Pro.
With CITY2, Watts quickly became a regular starter. In 2022, he racked up over 2,000 minutes, scored six times, and led the team with seven assists. That kind of production put him among the league’s top creators.
| Club | Years | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville City FC | 2019-2021 | 15 | 0 | 0 | 900+ |
| St. Louis CITY2 | 2022 | 24 | 6 | 7 | 2053 |
CITY2’s success with Watts in the lineup led St. Louis City SC to offer him a first-team contract. He wears the No. 20 shirt now and seems to have found a good fit.
International Experience
Watts’ international journey started at the youth level with the United States. He played 13 matches for the U.S. U-17 national team, including games at the 2017 CONCACAF U-17 Championship and the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
You probably caught him taking on top players from around the world, which definitely sharpened his skills under pressure. Competing in those tournaments forced him to adapt to different styles and tactics.
His time with the youth national team caught the eye of European clubs, and that led to a contract with Mallorca. He didn’t quite break through in Spain, but that experience still shaped his outlook and approach.
Watts hasn’t earned a senior national team call-up yet. Still, his youth international track record hints at his potential and gives him a well-rounded background.
Performance Statistics
If you watch Akil Watts, you’ll see a midfielder who values control and rarely panics on the ball. He keeps things moving, makes smart decisions, and helps out all over the field.
2025 Season Stats
Watts started the 2025 season as a depth piece, but he found steady minutes for St. Louis City SC. His main role has been in central midfield, where his passing accuracy and defensive awareness stand out more than any flashy stats.
Here’s a quick look at his 2025 league numbers:
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 21 |
| Starts | 14 |
| Minutes Played | 1,245 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Shots on Target | 6 |
| Passing Accuracy | 84% |
His stats might not wow you, but they paint the picture of a midfielder who values efficiency. He’s not out there to score a bunch—he connects play and keeps things stable.
Key Match Highlights
Watts stood out in April when he played the full 90 minutes in a win over Houston. That night he completed over 90 percent of his passes, helping St. Louis control the midfield battle.
In June, he set up a goal against Colorado with a slick through ball that split the defense. That kind of pass shows he can spot an opening and isn’t afraid to go for it.
He also stepped up defensively in July versus LAFC, making four interceptions and three tackles. Those moments broke up dangerous plays and showed his awareness off the ball.
You won’t see Watts in the headlines, but he delivers the kind of moments that shift a game’s tempo. His impact usually comes from smart positioning and quick choices, not highlight-reel dribbles.
Passing and Defensive Metrics
Watts really leans on his passing. He averages about 45 passes per match, with most going forward or out wide. That keeps St. Louis moving and helps them switch from defense to attack.
On defense, he averages 1.8 tackles and 1.2 interceptions each game. His smart positioning means he doesn’t have to dive into risky challenges, so he rarely ends up caught out.
Passing Breakdown (per match):
- Short passes: 28
- Medium passes: 12
- Long passes: 5
His ability to hit longer passes brings balance to the midfield. You can see how his technical background—shaped by his time at the University of Louisville—shows up in his game now.
Disciplinary Record
Watts keeps his cool on the field, and it shows in his disciplinary record. Through 21 matches in 2025, he’s picked up just 2 yellow cards and hasn’t seen red.
He avoids unnecessary tackles by reading the game and knowing when to step in. Watts prefers to close down space and force mistakes rather than dive in recklessly.
For a midfielder, limiting fouls is a big deal. He averages just 0.9 fouls per game, which means he plays hard but stays disciplined.
You can count on him to stay available and avoid suspensions—something coaches definitely appreciate when setting their lineups. His approach just makes him a steady, reliable option in a tough league.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
Akil Watts has built his career step by step, earning his spot in Major League Soccer after plenty of hard work in the U.S. and overseas. His journey includes key milestones, recognition for his playmaking skills, and a clear role in St. Louis City SC’s rise in MLS.
MLS Milestones
Watts is more than just a squad player. His move from St. Louis CITY2 to the first team stands out as a major step. After tallying seven assists in CITY2’s first MLS NEXT Pro season, the front office gave him a first-team contract with options through 2026. That kind of commitment says a lot about how much they trust him.
He also brought experience from his days with Louisville City FC and a stint at RCD Mallorca in Spain. Those stops gave him the technical skills and tactical awareness needed to compete in MLS.
Watts made his MLS debut with St. Louis City SC and showed his versatility. Even though he’s listed as a midfielder, he’s played centrally and at right back. That flexibility keeps him in the mix for minutes every week.
Key Statistics (MLS NEXT Pro 2022)
| Category | Total | Team Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 24 | 2nd most |
| Starts | 23 | — |
| Assists | 7 | 1st |
| Goals | 6 | T-2nd |
| Minutes Played | 2053 | 2nd |
Awards and Honors
You won’t find a trophy cabinet full of awards for Watts—at least not yet. Still, his seven assists in MLS NEXT Pro ranked fourth in the league, putting him up there with the top creators. That consistency helped earn him a senior roster spot and a contract upgrade.
At the youth level, Watts played for the U.S. U-17 National Team at the 2017 CONCACAF U-17 Championship and the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Getting that kind of international experience at 17 definitely shaped his approach to the pro game.
St. Louis City SC’s sporting director has praised Watts’ work ethic and his quick adjustment from CITY2 to MLS. That kind of recognition from club leadership can mean more than outside awards, especially for a young player still making his mark.
Impact on Team Success
When you look at how Watts fits into St. Louis City SC’s system, your impression of him shifts a bit. He hasn’t always grabbed headlines, but the coaching staff really values his ability to cover different positions.
That kind of depth matters a lot, especially for an expansion club that’s trying to survive in a tough league.
Watts shows off his passing range and defensive reliability by sliding into whatever role the team needs. Sometimes he supports possession in midfield; other times, he defends wide spaces at right back.
No matter where he plays, he adjusts and keeps the team balanced.
He brings something extra in transition moments. Watts pushes the ball forward, and his background as both a midfielder and defender lets St. Louis City SC break quickly from defense to attack.
That versatility? It’s made him a steady contributor to the club’s early MLS success.
Watts blends his U.S. youth international experience with professional minutes in Spain and the USL. He’s become a reliable piece for St. Louis City SC.
His presence helps stabilize the roster, giving the club another option when matches demand tactical flexibility.
