Meet the Midfield Maestro Who Steals Sock Timeouts and Goals — C. Wallem’s Secret Life as St. Louis City SC’s #6
So, you’re curious about who wears the number 6 for St. Louis City SC and what makes him worth watching. C. Wallem is a Norwegian midfielder on loan from Slavia Prague. He brings energy, versatility, and a bit of grit to the team’s midfield. At 25, he already shows real maturity and tactical smarts, which is honestly impressive and probably why Olof Mellberg trusts him.
Watch him during a match and you’ll notice he covers a ton of ground. Sometimes he pushes high on the right, other times he drops deep to link play. That kind of adaptability is rare, and it’s a big reason why the club worked to bring him in on loan until the end of the 2025 MLS season, with an option to buy. Wallem, who honed his game in Norway before heading to Slavia Prague, is still climbing toward his peak.
When you check out St. Louis City SC’s midfield, his presence shifts the way the team moves the ball and presses. He switches roles mid-match—breaking up play, then driving forward with the ball. And since he’s a former Norwegian youth international, you know he brings experience beyond just club football. That edge helps him handle the demands of Major League Soccer. For some background, Wallem started his career in Norway, built a solid foundation, and then made the leap abroad. That path set him up for this chapter in St. Louis.
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C. Wallem’s Role at St. Louis City SC
Conrad Wallem came to St. Louis City SC on loan from Slavia Prague. He fills an international slot and brings versatility to a midfield that needed some stability. At just 24 and a product of the Norwegian system, he’s already become a key piece in Olof Mellberg’s tactical plans.
Midfield Responsibilities
You’ll see Wallem pop up all over the pitch, which makes him valuable in MLS. He’s played high on the right, tucked into the left, and dropped deeper to help the back line. That flexibility shows he can read the game and adjust to what the team needs.
His work rate stands out in the stats. In his first eight matches, he played 600 minutes, created seven chances, and made 30 recovery runs. Those numbers tell you he’s someone who helps transition quickly from defense to attack.
Key stats (early 2025 season):
| Matches Started | Minutes Played | Chances Created | Interceptions | Recovery Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 600 | 7 | 7 | 30 |
For a club dealing with injuries, Wallem’s consistency in covering ground and winning the ball back has been huge. His influence really shows when City tries to control the tempo against stronger teams.
Jersey Number and Position
Wallem wears the #6 shirt for St. Louis City SC. That number usually signals a defensive midfielder, which fits, though he doesn’t just sit in front of the back four. You’ll catch him stepping forward into more advanced spaces when the attack needs width or another passing option.
In MLS, where pace and physicality matter, his ability to shift between roles sets him apart from one-dimensional midfielders. Sometimes he looks like a classic holding midfielder, screening the defense. Other times, he pushes into the half-spaces on the right, almost like a wide midfielder.
The number 6 comes with responsibility, but his role is broader than that. Expect him to balance defensive cover with forward support, depending on the game.
Integration into the Squad
Wallem arrived from Slavia Prague and had to adapt quickly to both MLS and Mellberg’s system. He’s managed by staying flexible and focusing on details—like positioning off the ball or timing his runs.
He fits into the locker room, too. He’s spoken positively about St. Louis, enjoying the city and the fans. That comfort matters when you’re adjusting to a new league and culture.
On the field, his steady presence stands out. Even during tough stretches, he’s remained a reliable option in midfield. For a young club, having someone who can slot into different roles without fuss is a real asset.
Wallem developed in Norway before moving abroad, and he’s shown the kind of maturity you expect from someone with European experience. That background helps him settle into MLS, where tactical flexibility and physical demands both matter.
Transfer Details and Contract Status
St. Louis CITY SC brought in Conrad Wallem on a deal that balances short-term needs with long-term options. The agreement is a loan from SK Slavia Prague, includes a purchase option, and uses an international roster slot. Each part of this move matters for both Wallem and the club.
Loan Agreement from SK Slavia Prague
St. Louis CITY SC secured Wallem on loan from SK Slavia Prague, a top Czech club. The loan runs through the 2025 MLS season, so you know how long he’s under contract.
The deal is pending his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate, which are standard for international players joining MLS. Once those clear, Wallem can join the squad right away.
This loan structure lets St. Louis evaluate his fit in MLS before committing to a permanent transfer. Wallem gets time to adapt to a new league but stays connected to Slavia Prague.
Loan Snapshot:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| From Club | SK Slavia Prague |
| To Club | St. Louis CITY SC |
| Duration | Until end of 2025 MLS season |
| Status | Pending P-1 Visa and ITC |
Option to Buy Explained
The loan deal includes an option to buy. St. Louis CITY SC can make Wallem’s move permanent after 2025, but they aren’t obligated to. The club can decide based on how he performs and fits with the squad.
For fans, this means the club isn’t locked into a long-term financial commitment. If Wallem turns out to be a consistent contributor, St. Louis can keep him for future seasons.
This option is valuable in MLS, where roster and salary cap rules are tight. Teams get to test a player before using big budget resources. In Wallem’s case, the club has leverage and time to make the call.
International Roster Slot Implications
Because Wallem is Norwegian, he takes up an international roster slot on the St. Louis CITY SC roster. Every MLS team only gets a handful of these slots, so how they use them is a big deal.
St. Louis dedicating a slot to Wallem shows they value his versatility and potential impact. He can play as a winger or wingback, giving the coaches options in different spots.
International slots can be traded between MLS clubs. Using one on Wallem is a calculated move. With experience in European competitions, including the Europa League, he brings proven quality to the midfield.
Playing Style and Versatility
Conrad Wallem stands out because he shifts across roles, balancing defensive structure with attacking support. His game is all about tactical awareness, energy, and a willingness to do what’s needed.
Wingback and Winger Capabilities
You’ll see his flexibility when he slides into wide roles. Sometimes he pushes high on the right as a winger, stretching the field. Other times, he drops into a wingback spot, where defensive work is just as important as attacking.
His pace helps him close space fast, and his work rate means he tracks back after attacking. That dual ability makes him a strong fit when the team switches between a back three and a back four.
He times his overlapping runs well. He doesn’t push wide every single time, but picks his moments to get forward and deliver into the box. That’s the kind of decision-making that keeps him effective on both sides of the ball.
Strengths in Attack and Defense
Wallem isn’t just about defense or attack—he does both. His attacking game includes creating chances, driving forward with the ball, and linking midfield to the front line. He’s already set up several key passes that have led to chances for St. Louis.
On defense, he covers ground with real intensity. He intercepts passes and recovers loose balls, which adds value. His early numbers show impact at both ends:
| Category | Stat (2025) |
|---|---|
| Matches Started | 7 |
| Minutes Played | 600 |
| Chances Created | 7 |
| Interceptions | 7 |
| Recovery Runs | 30 |
Those stats explain why coaches trust him in high-pressure games. You can count on him to contribute in transition, whether it’s breaking up a counter or starting one.
Adaptability in Midfield Roles
His versatility in central midfield stands out, too. Wallem has played deeper at times, shielding the back line, but he’s also pushed higher to link up with forwards. That range is valuable for any coach who wants tactical options.
His time at SK Slavia Prague and now in MLS shows he’s comfortable switching roles even within a single match. As a viewer, you might see him as a holding midfielder in one half and a box-to-box runner in the next.
He makes this work because he understands spacing. He reads where gaps open and adjusts, and his technical skill helps him keep up. That gives St. Louis CITY SC a midfielder who adapts without losing his edge.
Wallem, who came up through Norwegian football with Ullensaker/Kisa before moving abroad, now brings that background to a league that values pace and strength. His education on the pitch is clear in how smoothly he transitions between responsibilities.
Career History and Development
Conrad Wallem’s career has been one of steady progress. He moved up through Norway’s lower leagues, had a successful spell in the Eliteserien, and then joined one of Central Europe’s top clubs. Each step gave him new responsibilities and sharpened his versatility, setting him up for the challenges of Major League Soccer.
Early Years in Tønsberg and Norway
Wallem grew up in Tønsberg, Norway, and spent his formative years at the FK Eik Tønsberg academy. He racked up consistent minutes early on, showing a surprising knack for scoring from midfield.
In 40 matches for the senior team, he notched 11 goals. That’s more than just a midfielder who passes the ball around—he actually made a difference on the scoreboard.
He bagged his first professional goal in the NM-Cup, Norway’s domestic tournament. He played the full 120 minutes that day, showing off both his stamina and his nerve in a knockout match.
After that, he joined Arendal FC, a third-tier club. Over 55 matches, he added 10 goals and one assist.
That move gave him a taste of tougher competition, but he still found plenty of minutes to sharpen his attacking instincts.
Early Career Stats
| Club | Matches | Goals | Assists | Competition Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FK Eik Tønsberg | 40 | 11 | 0 | Norway lower tier |
| Arendal FC | 55 | 10 | 1 | Norway third tier |
Performance at Odds BK
Wallem signed with Odds BK in 2021, stepping up to Norway’s top division. This was his shot at the Eliteserien, Norway’s highest division, and he didn’t waste time making an impression.
He quickly became a regular starter, helping out on both ends of the pitch.
Over 82 matches, he scored 11 goals and chipped in with 14 assists. His creativity and defensive workrate made him valuable in just about any system.
Facing stronger teams every week forced him to improve his positioning and decision-making. The pace and tactical demands in the Eliteserien pushed him to grow fast.
Odds BK Stats
| Matches | Goals | Assists | Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 82 | 11 | 14 | 2021–2023 |
Experience at Slavia Prague
In 2023, Wallem made the jump to Slavia Prague and the Czech First League. It’s a big move—Slavia’s a club that regularly battles in Europe.
He put up nine goals and nine assists in 47 matches. That includes 12 Europa League games, where he scored once and set up two more.
The pace and physicality there felt like another step up from Norway. Playing at Slavia, he saw action as a wingback and as a winger, showing off his versatility.
Coaches used him in multiple spots, and he adapted without missing a beat.
Slavia Prague Stats
| Matches | Goals | Assists | European Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47 | 9 | 9 | 12 (1G, 2A) |
His time in Prague gave him real international experience before heading over on loan to St. Louis City SC. Now, he wears the number 6 shirt as a midfielder in MLS.
Impact on St. Louis City SC’s Midfield
Conrad Wallem has brought a lot of flexibility and steady output to St. Louis City SC’s midfield. He’s comfortable in a bunch of roles, which gives the club tactical flexibility.
You can see his energy and balance in games that sometimes turn on the smallest of details.
Tactical Influence
Wallem’s impact really shows in the way he adapts to different formations. Since coming over from Slavia Prague, he’s played both wide and central roles.
That gives manager Olof Mellberg options when injuries pop up or matchups get tricky.
His positioning lets City press higher or drop back as the situation demands. That kind of adaptability isn’t common for a 25-year-old, and it’s a big reason sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel pushed to bring him in on loan with an option to buy.
Wallem’s stats back up his influence on both sides of the ball. In his first eight matches, he played 600 minutes, created seven chances, and made seven interceptions.
That mix of attacking and defensive work really helps stabilize a midfield that’s needed more consistency.
| Matches | Minutes | Chances Created | Interceptions | Recovery Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 600 | 7 | 7 | 30 |
When you watch him, it’s not just about passing—he covers a ton of ground. He reads the game well, which is probably why Mellberg trusts him in so many different spots.
Contribution to Team Dynamics
You can see his influence in the way his teammates move around him. Wallem’s willingness to shift positions lets others play their best game, whether that means giving Eduard Löwen more freedom to attack or helping out defensively when the back line is stretched.
His versatility takes some pressure off the squad, especially when injuries hit. In games where St. Louis has had trouble finding goals, Wallem has stepped into more attacking roles. He nearly scored against Sporting KC—just missed when his shot hit the post.
What stands out? He balances personal ambition with what the team needs. He’s not chasing flashy plays. Instead, he focuses on the “small details” that keep City ticking.
That makes him a connector in the midfield, linking defense to attack without messing with the rhythm.
He adjusted to MLS pretty smoothly after playing at Odds BK and Slavia Prague. You get why Pfannenstiel and Mellberg see him as a long-term fit, not just a short-term solution.
International Experience and Recognition
Wallem’s tested himself outside domestic leagues, spending time in Norway’s youth system and playing European tournaments against some established clubs. These experiences add depth to his development and show you how he adapts outside MLS.
Norwegian Youth National Team Involvement
Conrad Wallem caught the eye of Norway’s Under-19 national team early on. He made two appearances at that level, which put him firmly on the radar of the Norwegian Football Federation.
Those matches introduced him to international competition, where the pace and physicality are a notch above what you see domestically. You get a sense of how he measured up against peers who’d later play in top European leagues.
His youth national team career was brief, but it mattered. Representing your country, even at youth level, says a lot about your potential.
For a midfielder, those minutes also meant adjusting to new tactical systems and bigger expectations.
That foundation in Norway’s system built up his confidence and opened doors abroad, eventually leading him to the Czech league and now MLS.
European Competition Appearances
Before he joined St. Louis City SC, Wallem built up some real experience with Slavia Prague, one of the Czech Republic’s top clubs. He got time in both domestic league matches and the UEFA Europa League.
In the Europa League, he made 12 appearances, scored 1 goal, and added 2 assists.
That kind of exposure really counts. You’re not just playing the usual league games—you’re up against clubs from all over Europe, each with their own style and much higher stakes.
These matches push your technical ability, your decision-making, and honestly, your mental toughness too.
Here’s a quick look at his European competition record:
| Competition | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Europa League | 12 | 1 | 2 |
You can see how he handled pressure situations against tougher teams. For St. Louis City SC, that background brings in a guy who’s already faced the demands of international soccer—and that can only help in MLS.
