M. Amundsen Columbus Crew Defender #18 Performance Analysis and Impact

Folks, if you’re keeping up with Major League Soccer, you’ve probably heard the name Malte Amundsen by now. Especially if you’ve got any love for Columbus Crew, this guy’s become a fixture at the back, rocking that number 18 jersey.

As the Crew’s starting defender, Amundsen’s made his presence felt—defensively, sure, but he’s also not shy about getting forward and joining the attack. You see him lay in tough tackles, always in the right spot, and sometimes he’ll pop up to set up a goal. There’s a consistency and energy to his game that just jumps off the screen every time he steps on the pitch.

So, what’s the secret sauce with Amundsen? Well, for starters, the guy’s got serious European pedigree. He came over from Denmark before landing in MLS. He’s not just steady—he’s got a knack for those big moments. Remember that game-winning goal against New England? He handed the Revolution their first home loss last season. He’s chipped in on offense too, especially in those Leagues Cup games.

If you want the numbers, here’s a quick look:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	Columbus Crew	22	3	3

Profile of Malte Amundsen

Malte Amundsen’s journey has been a steady climb. He’s earned his reputation as a reliable defender for Columbus Crew.

Born in Denmark, he basically grew up with a soccer ball at his feet. That football culture shaped his style and gave him discipline early on.

Early Life and Background

You can trace Malte Meineche Amundsen’s roots back to Denmark. He was born February 11, 1998, in Næstved.

His family’s support and the tight-knit local football scene really helped him grow as a player.

He spent hours at local pitches as a kid, working on his game with neighborhood clubs. His determination and that sweet left foot set him apart early.

Standing at 1.78 m (about 5’10”), he’s got decent size for a defender. Those early years built the foundation for how disciplined he is now, both on and off the field.

Danish Roots and Career Beginnings

Amundsen got his start in Denmark, where soccer’s just part of daily life. He climbed through the youth ranks of local clubs, grinding his way up the Danish football ladder.

His stint with Vejle Boldklub was a turning point. He played 53 matches and scored twice between 2019 and 2021. That run showed off his talent and his reliability as a defender.

Here’s a quick snapshot of his early pro numbers:

Club	Years	Appearances	Goals
Vejle Boldklub	2019-2021	53	2

What he did in Denmark set him up for the next chapter in the United States. If you want the full scoop on his journey and where he fits in now, check out his Columbus Crew official profile.

Columbus Crew Tenure

Amundsen’s become a crucial cog in the Columbus Crew defensive machine. Since his transfer, he’s made a mark in Columbus, growing as a player and making big contributions.

Joining the Columbus Crew

On April 25, 2023, Amundsen made his move to the Crew. The front office pulled off a trade with New York City FC to bring him in.

He showed up with a solid résumé—European experience and MLS matches under his belt. Before Columbus, he played for Vejle Boldklub in Denmark’s top league, racking up over 50 appearances and helping them earn promotion.

This move told the league Columbus meant business. They wanted a flexible, experienced defender heading into the business end of the season. The timing lined up with rising excitement at Lower.com Field and a real shot at a deep playoff run.

Role as Defender

Amundsen lines up mostly on the left side, and you can see his athleticism and sense of positioning every match. He fits the Crew’s system, pressing high when needed and keeping his cool when things get tense.

He’s started most MLS games since joining. Here’s a quick peek at his Crew stats:

Season	MLS Apps	MLS Cup Playoffs Apps	Goals	Assists
2023	22	6	0	2
2024*	Ongoing	TBA	TBA	TBA

*2024 stats are still rolling in.

What really pops is how well Amundsen adapts. Whether it’s a back three or a back four, he tackles smart, passes out from the back, and reads the game fast. You’ll watch him track runners, bark out instructions, and help the Crew stay tight in those nail-biting playoff moments.

MLS Cup Victory

Columbus Crew’s run for the MLS Cup hit its stride with Amundsen on the roster. In 2023, they went all the way, lifting the cup after a wild playoff ride at Lower.com Field.

Amundsen stepped up all postseason, shutting down some of the league’s best attackers. Fans at Lower.com Field noticed his steady play and those timely interventions that killed off dangerous attacks.

Winning the MLS Cup put Amundsen on the map as a champion in his very first Crew season. That’s a huge notch on his belt and a testament to how much difference a single defender can make when the stakes are sky-high. For more on his numbers and career, his Columbus Crew player profile has you covered.

Playing Style and Strengths

Right away, you’ll notice Amundsen brings focus and versatility to the table. His defender’s instincts—especially as a center-back—show up in the way he reads the play and supports both defense and, now and then, the attack.

Defensive Skills and Attributes

Amundsen’s reputation rests on his reliability at the back. He steps up to attackers with sharp timing and has a knack for picking off passes.

That left foot? It gives the Crew balance when they build from the back. He’s a strong tackler, and you rarely see him dive in recklessly.

He organizes the back line with a calm presence. He keeps his discipline, holding the line and not getting pulled out of position. That helps the Crew avoid counterattacks and keeps things tight.

In one-on-ones, Amundsen stays cool. He blocks shots and isn’t afraid to step up and break up plays.

Defensive Stats for 2024 MLS Season

Stat	Value
Tackles per 90	2.1
Interceptions per 90	1.3
Clearances per 90	3.6
Blocks per 90	0.7

Those numbers show he’s always involved, especially when it comes to clearances. That’s huge for shutting down danger in the Crew’s defensive third.

Centre-Back Experience

From his early days in Denmark to his minutes with the Crew, Amundsen’s shown real center-back instincts. He’s played left-back and left mid, but you see his best stuff when he’s locked in at center-back.

He uses his awareness to read attackers. You don’t often catch him out of position or slow to react, even when things get frantic. Leadership seems to come naturally—he’s always talking, keeping the line organized, and pushing the team upfield when it’s time.

He’s not backing down from aerial duels, either. He tracks strikers and wins his fair share of headers on set pieces. If you want a tackler, quick thinker, or a guy who can help in transition, Amundsen’s your man in the middle.

He played a vital role during his spell with New York City FC, especially during their 2021 MLS Cup run. That same steady presence has carried over to Columbus.

Assists and Offensive Contributions

While defense is his calling card, Amundsen isn’t afraid to get forward. His left foot delivers some nice long balls and crosses. In 2023, he chalked up three assists and three goals—a sign he’ll join the attack when the chance is there.

When he overlaps, he gives the Crew width. He’s comfortable carrying the ball upfield, and sometimes that catches opponents off guard. His stats won’t blow you away on offense, but he’s efficient and smart with the ball.

Key Offensive Stats (2023)

Stat	Value
Goals	3
Assists	3
Key Passes per 90	0.6
Cross Completion %	24%

You get the sense that Amundsen only pushes forward when it fits the game plan. He won’t sacrifice his defensive duties for a flashy run. That balance is gold for any backline.

Career with Previous Clubs

Amundsen laid his foundation in Denmark before coming to MLS. Looking back at his time with Vejle Boldklub and New York City FC, plus his Danish Superliga experience, you really see how he’s grown.

Vejle Boldklub Achievements

At Vejle Boldklub, Amundsen went from promising prospect to key contributor. He played 53 matches over two seasons and chipped in two goals from the back.

His presence helped Vejle BK stay competitive in both league and cup play. His work ethic really shined during the 2019–2020 campaign, when Vejle put up some strong defensive numbers.

Vejle Boldklub Stats

Season	Matches	Goals
2019-2021	53	2

Those seasons saw his tackling, passing, and composure take a step up—traits that caught the eye of clubs outside Denmark.

Stint at NYCFC

Amundsen’s career took a fresh turn when he joined New York City FC. He broke into Major League Soccer in 2021.

At NYCFC, he quickly earned a starting spot. The coaches valued his versatility on the left, whether as a center-back or left-back. He made his biggest impact during playoff time, helping NYCFC lift the 2021 MLS Cup.

Here’s a quick look at his NYCFC numbers:

Season	MLS Matches	Important Notes
2021	25	MLS Cup Winner
2022	28	Back-to-back assists
2023*	5	Traded mid-season

*2023: Traded to Columbus Crew in April

He left New York known for his stamina, aerial ability, and tactical smarts.

Experience in Danish Superliga

Let’s talk about those Vejle Boldklub years—because, folks, Malte Amundsen really cut his teeth in the Danish Superliga, Denmark’s top flight. You can’t really appreciate his career until you look at those battles against the best Danish clubs. Those seasons matured his defending and, honestly, forced him to make quicker decisions.

In the Superliga, Amundsen had to adjust to a faster tempo and some pretty aggressive attacks. The league demanded smarter positioning and lightning-fast anticipation.

He didn’t just hold his own—he improved. One-on-one defending? He stepped up. Distribution under pressure? He made it look easy, or at least easier than most.

That experience in Denmark set him up for a move abroad. It prepped him for MLS and turned him into the reliable defender Crew fans count on now.

Transfers and Contracts

Malte Amundsen’s journey to the Columbus Crew has been anything but quiet. Key trades, real investment, and contracts that show just how much the club trusts his defensive chops.

MLS Trades and General Allocation Money

You probably remember the trade that brought Amundsen to Columbus. On April 24, 2023, the Crew pulled the trigger, bringing him in from New York City FC using General Allocation Money (GAM). That’s the currency that lets MLS teams get creative with their rosters—offsetting salaries and opening the door for new talent.

General manager Issa Tall didn’t just sit back—he targeted Amundsen for his speed and tactical sense. The Crew needed an answer in defense after some key departures, and Amundsen was it.

Nobody’s spilled the full details on the GAM sent to NYCFC, but Amundsen made an immediate impact, working his way into the starting lineup and justifying the front office’s gamble.

Key Details of Trade:

Date	From	To	Key Terms
April 24, 2023	NYCFC	Columbus Crew	Trade for GAM

Key Contract Extensions

After settling in, Amundsen didn’t have to wait long for contract security. In August 2024, the Crew signed him to a multi-year extension, locking him in through the 2027 MLS season.

That’s a real vote of confidence from management and especially Issa Tall, who keeps pushing for stability at the back. The new deal gives Amundsen a long-term home and lets the Crew plan ahead with a proven left-footed defender in the mix.

The club announced the extension with plenty of fanfare, citing his experience and championship mentality. Keeping a player like Amundsen on a long-term deal helps Columbus stay deep and cohesive as they chase more trophies.

Contract Extension Summary:

Player	Extension Signed	Contract End	Position	Club
Malte Amundsen	August 2024	December 2027	Defender (#18)	Columbus Crew

You can dig into the contract details on Transfermarkt or check the Crew’s official announcement.

Notable Matches and Trophies

If you’ve tracked M. Amundsen’s career, you know he’s more than just a routine defender. He shows up in big games, playoff runs, and knockout tournaments—moments that have shaped Columbus Crew’s success.

Game-Winning Goals

Now, Amundsen’s main job is locking down attackers, but he’s got a knack for showing up when it counts. Back at Vejle Boldklub, he scored two goals in 53 matches—both in tight, high-pressure games.

Since joining the Crew, he’s become a set-piece threat, moving up on corners and free kicks. He doesn’t score often, but when he does, it matters. In 2022, he had back-to-back assists in crucial games that helped swing results Columbus’s way. Those moments show he can deliver when the pressure’s on.

Key Statistics Table

Season	Club	Goals	Assists	Notable Match Impact
2019-2021	Vejle Boldklub	2	N/A	Game-winners
2022	Columbus Crew	0	2	Back-to-back assists

MLS Cup Playoff Highlights

Let’s be honest: Playoff soccer is a different beast. Amundsen brought consistency when it mattered most. In the 2022 MLS Cup Playoffs, he played all three games for Columbus, anchoring the back line.

His defensive reads and quick decisions helped the Crew push deep into the postseason. Teammates and coaches didn’t hold back on praise, calling him a defensive anchor when tension ran high.

He might not grab headlines, but his positioning and calm under pressure make him a valuable playoff asset.

Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup Performances

Amundsen’s been a steady presence in cup competitions, too. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he manages the physical grind of back-to-back tournaments.

He secures leads with strong defending and moves the ball upfield to spark attacks. In the U.S. Open Cup, his marking and anticipation have shut down opponent chances, helping Columbus control knockout rounds.

He covers ground, rotates with other defenders, and keeps the back line organized for late cup runs. The Crew’s pursuit of trophies relies on his reliability and team-first approach.

International Experience

Before landing in MLS, Amundsen built his career in Europe. He took on club and continental challenges, playing in Denmark and even getting a taste of top European leagues.

European Clubs and Competitions

Amundsen’s foundation comes from his years in Denmark and across Europe. He started at Næstved, then moved to HB Køge, picking up valuable minutes in the lower leagues.

His stretch at Vejle Boldklub stands out. As a primary defender, he helped Vejle earn promotion to the Danish Superliga in 2019-20, playing 53 matches and scoring twice.

He also spent time with Rosenborg and on loan at Eintracht Braunschweig. Those stops gave him experience with different styles and high-pressure matches.

Clubs Played For:

Club	Seasons	Appearances	Goals
Næstved	Early career	Data varies	–
HB Køge	Early career	Data varies	–
Vejle Boldklub	2019-2021	53	2
Rosenborg	Loan period	–	–
Eintracht Braunschweig	Loan period	–	–

Concacaf Champions Cup

After joining Columbus in April 2023, Amundsen adjusted fast to MLS. His role grew once the Crew made it into the Concacaf Champions Cup—the top club competition in North America.

This tournament lines up MLS, Liga MX, and Central American powerhouses. Amundsen has used his European experience to handle tough knockout matches.

In the Champions Cup, he’s drawn tough assignments against strong attacking teams. His adaptability, learned in Europe, has made a difference for the Crew in those high-stakes games. It’s given him a chance to test himself against the continent’s best.

Key Teammates and Rivals

On the pitch, partnerships and tough opponents shape every defender’s career. For Amundsen, the performances of Yaw Yeboah and Mohamed Farsi—and battles against top MLS clubs—define his impact with Columbus.

Yaw Yeboah and Mohamed Farsi

Yaw Yeboah and Mohamed Farsi aren’t just filling out the roster. They’re critical to how Columbus Crew defends and attacks.

Yaw Yeboah, usually on the wing, brings speed and creativity. He tracks back and helps defensively, making the Crew’s left side more solid. On the attack, his runs open up options for Amundsen, stretching defenses and creating space.

Mohamed Farsi, a right wing-back who never seems to stop running, stretches play and wins back the ball. Farsi’s energy on counters lets defenders like Amundsen push up or read the game, knowing help is on the way.

Here’s a quick look at what they’ve done in 2024:

Player	Matches Played	Assists	Key Passes	Tackles per Game
Yaw Yeboah	28	4	29	1.7
Mohamed Farsi	26	5	32	2.0

Notable MLS Opponents

Facing top MLS clubs is where defenders earn their stripes. For Amundsen, showdowns with Atlanta United, Orlando City, LA Galaxy, Minnesota United, LAFC, FC Cincinnati, and D.C. United stand out.

Atlanta United will test your positioning and anticipation, especially with pacey attackers. Orlando City and LA Galaxy force you to handle wide attacks and quick transitions.

LAFC and Minnesota United bring smart off-ball movement. That means constant communication with Farsi and Yeboah is vital. FC Cincinnati and D.C. United? They’ll hit you with physical, direct play, so discipline and clearances are a must.

Watching Amundsen in these high-pressure games gives you a real sense of his value to the Crew’s back line, especially when the postseason is on the line.

Recognition and Awards

Malte Amundsen’s value to Columbus Crew isn’t just about his play—it’s about the recognition he’s earned. Teammates respect him, and the club, along with the league, has acknowledged his efforts with awards and honors.

Kirk Urso Heart Award

Let me tell you, the Kirk Urso Heart Award stands as one of the most meaningful honors in the Columbus Crew organization. They named it after Kirk Urso, a former Crew player, and it goes to the person who shows the most passion, leadership, and commitment—on the pitch and off.

In 2023, Amundsen grabbed this award. He led by keeping his cool under pressure and just grinding every single week.

He stepped up big time in crucial moments, especially when the Crew faced LAFC in that championship match. That assist he delivered in the middle of an 11-pass sequence? Absolutely clutch.

The coaching staff and his teammates picked him for this honor. That says a ton about the way his character and determination shape the club’s culture.

It’s not every day you see a defender take home an award like this. It really shows how much he matters to the group, way beyond stats or highlights.

Kirk Urso Heart Award – Key Attributes

Attribute	Demonstrated By Amundsen
Leadership	Captain-like communication
Passion	Unwavering effort in matches
Reliability	Consistent performer

Other Career Honors

Outside of club awards, Amundsen has picked up some impressive achievements. Back in the early days, he played for Vejle BK and New York City FC before landing in Columbus.

With those clubs, he showed he could adapt and develop in just about any defensive spot they needed.

He’s been a regular starter at the MLS level, and you can see why his market value hit €3.00m by June 2025. That kind of respect doesn’t come easy.

He’s also helped his teams push into the playoffs, showing up in those high-pressure knockout games. You’ll spot his name in the starting lineup nearly every week, and the stats back it up.

2024 Season Key Stats for Columbus Crew

Matches Played	Starts	Minutes Played	Assists
32	30	2,700	3

Clubs keep recognizing Amundsen for more than just trophies. Every season, coaches and teammates value his attitude and skill set.

For a defender, those little things—the intangibles—can matter just as much as tackles or passes. That’s the kind of impact you want in your back line, isn’t it?

Future Prospects

Let’s talk about M. Amundsen—he’s primed to anchor the Columbus Crew’s defense for years to come. The club just signed him to a contract extension, locking him in through 2027. That move? It screams confidence in what he brings every week. Learn more at Crew sign key player to contract extension.

Amundsen’s 27 now, right in that sweet spot for a defender. You know how defenders tend to get sharper with age? He’s already shown he can handle the pressure—regular season, playoffs, you name it.

Take a look at these numbers from his latest campaign:

Stat	Value
Appearances	22
Starts	21
Goals + Assists	3
Postseason Games	6

Looking ahead, I expect Amundsen to step up with more leadership and communication on the field. As some veterans move on and fresh faces arrive, he’ll probably become the guy organizing the back line.

If he keeps this up, why not put him in the conversation with the league’s best defenders? Maybe some European clubs will take notice too—he’s got the age, he’s got the contract, and he’s got the game. For now, Columbus Crew fans can relax; Amundsen’s future here looks bright.