M. Amundsen Columbus Crew Defender #18 Key Contributions and Performance Analysis

Hey soccer fans, if you follow the Columbus Crew, you know M. Amundsen—number 18—has become a staple on the lineup sheet.

Amundsen plays a key role on defense for the Crew, bringing steady play and sharp decision-making at the back. You can’t help but notice his impact when the Crew grind out tight games, shutting down attacks and helping the team pick up crucial points.

The Danish defender signed a contract extension that keeps him in Columbus through 2027. That’s big—he’ll anchor the back line for years.

If you’ve watched any Crew games lately, you’ve probably caught his smart positioning, crisp passing, and those timely surges into the attack.

Want to dig deeper into his journey and recent performances? Check out Columbus Crew Defender Malte Amundsen.

Profile of M. Amundsen

Malte Amundsen stands out as a reliable left-footed defender for Columbus, built on strong European training.

He brings adaptability and a relentless work ethic, qualities that have shaped him both in MLS and back home in Denmark.

Personal Background

Malte Meineche Amundsen was born on February 11, 1998, in Herfølge, Denmark. That small town gave him his start as a footballer.

His family, especially his father Ole Amundsen, played a huge part in his early development.

Malte started kicking a ball young, with his dad coaching and encouraging him from the sidelines. As a kid, he built a reputation for hard work and discipline—traits you still see in his game today.

By his mid-teens, scouts in Denmark’s local leagues took notice. Amundsen impressed with his technical skills and smart positioning, which opened doors to the professional ranks.

His family’s support helped him push through those first big steps.

Physical Attributes

Standing 1.78 meters (about 5’10”) and weighing in at 81 kilograms, Amundsen brings a balanced mix of agility and strength to the pitch.

That frame lets him keep up with speedy wingers and hold his own in physical battles.

His quick burst off the mark is a real asset. Amundsen’s strong core helps him win one-on-one duels.

He’s a lefty, and you can see how comfortable he is on the ball—overlapping runs, sharp crosses, the whole package.

Here’s a quick look at his basics:

Attribute	Value
Height	1.78 m
Weight	81 kg
Preferred Foot	Left
Jersey Number	18

This blend gives the Crew options, whether they need to hold possession or match up defensively.

Danish Football Roots

Growing up in Herfølge, Amundsen soaked up Denmark’s rich football culture.

The Danish club system puts a premium on technique and tactics, and it shows in his approach.

He worked his way up through local academies, getting a taste for disciplined training and tough competition.

You can spot that Danish pedigree in his play for Columbus. Ball control, passing, and defensive structure are all part of his toolkit.

His shift from Danish leagues to MLS didn’t just require skill—it took real adaptability and maturity.

For more on his journey, check out his club profile and his transfermarkt stats.

Columbus Crew Career

Malte Amundsen has become a rock in the Columbus Crew defense. Since joining in 2023, he’s helped shape the club’s backline in big ways.

Joining the Club

In April 2023, the Crew made a savvy defensive pickup by trading for Amundsen from New York City FC.

He came in for $400,000 in General Allocation Money, plus a possible $100,000 more based on performance.

It didn’t make huge headlines, but Columbus got a versatile defender who could help right away.

Amundsen settled in quickly and locked down a starting spot.

During the 2023 regular season, he played in 22 matches, starting 21 of them. The Crew’s coaches loved his tactical awareness and his knack for shutting down attackers one-on-one.

After just a few games, it was obvious Columbus had landed a defender who could help build a winner.

You can read more about his arrival in the Crew’s official announcement.

Role as Defender

With #18 on his back, Amundsen fits in at left-back or center-back, wherever the Crew need him.

That flexibility lets Columbus tweak their formations depending on the matchup.

He stands out for his sharp positioning and quick recovery runs. Coaches trust him to cover ground, jump into passing lanes, and match up with some of MLS’s best wingers and forwards.

Amundsen brings a calm presence and plays the ball out of the back with confidence.

Here’s a snapshot of his stats:

Season	Appearances	Starts	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2023	22	21	0	3	1,765

His numbers tell the story of a defender who values stability and support over flashy attacking numbers.

That steady approach made him a go-to guy for the Crew in big moments.

MLS Cup Championship

Amundsen’s stock rose as the Crew pushed for the 2023 MLS Cup.

In the playoffs, coaches trusted him with starting roles. He soaked up pressure and made key clearances.

His ability to slot in anywhere along the back line gave Columbus a real edge in the postseason.

On MLS Cup day at Lower.com Field, Amundsen played his part as the Crew clinched a 2-1 win to become MLS Cup champions.

His defense limited the opposition’s chances, and his passing helped settle things down.

That moment capped off a fantastic year for both player and club.

Winning the Cup earned Amundsen plenty of recognition. The Crew responded by extending his contract through 2027.

Key Performances and Highlights

Amundsen’s biggest impact comes in high-pressure games.

During the 2023 playoffs, his defensive work was crucial as the Crew advanced round after round.

His best performances featured hard tackles, smart positioning, and support in attack with overlapping runs.

He chipped in three assists and stayed solid at the back. When injuries or suspensions hit, he barely left the field—showing his fitness and focus.

At Lower.com Field, his chemistry with teammates helped Columbus stay organized and limit top opponents.

Fans and coaches noticed when he consistently shut down some of MLS’s best attackers, helping the Crew secure their third MLS Cup title.

Playing Style and Strengths

Malte Amundsen brings a modern style to defending—he’s sharp, technical, and not afraid to get involved upfield.

You see a guy who can lock things down at the back but also jump into the attack when the Crew need a spark.

Defensive Abilities

Right away, you notice Amundsen’s strength in one-on-one battles.

He reads the game, steps in to intercept passes, and wins the ball back for his team.

His knack for ball recovery makes him one of the league’s most dependable defenders.

He keeps his composure under pressure and rarely loses focus when it matters.

His tackling is clean—he gets the ball without giving up silly fouls.

When you watch him marshal the back line, his calm approach stands out.

Amundsen tracks attackers well, whether in open space or near the box.

Here are some defensive stats:

Stat	2025 Season
Appearances	22
Tackles per game	2.3
Interceptions per game	1.7
Clearances per game	4.1

Offensive Contributions

Even as a defender, Amundsen adds something going forward.

He pushes up the left side, giving the Crew width and serving in quality crosses.

His awareness lets him spark quick transitions and get the ball into dangerous spots.

This season, he’s chipped in with three assists and even scored three goals—not bad for a defender.

He’s a threat on set pieces, timing his runs well and finding space in the box.

He doesn’t overdo it, though—he picks his spots to join the attack.

Teams value defenders who can contribute offensively, and Amundsen delivers on that front. Opponents have to respect his presence when he pushes up.

For more on his performance and stats, check out the league site.

Versatility and Positioning

Amundsen’s versatility jumps out—he’s comfortable at center-back or left-back, shifting as needed.

You see him adjust depending on the lineup and the opponent, which is a huge asset in MLS.

He uses his sense of positioning to close down attackers and keep his line organized.

His adaptability helps the Crew rotate systems without losing defensive stability.

If injuries or form changes hit, Amundsen can step into any role in the back.

His precise positioning leads to fewer mistakes and better coverage against fast breaks.

Coaches lean on him to anchor the defense and provide leadership, no matter where he plays.

For a closer look at his role, check out this detailed analysis.

Transfers, Trades, and Contracts

Let’s talk about Malte Amundsen’s career path—a real journey marked by trades, contract moves, and plenty of trust from club leaders. The Columbus Crew didn’t just pick him up on a whim; their investment shows just how much they value what he brings to the squad.

MLS Trades and General Allocation Money

Back in April 2023, Amundsen landed in Columbus thanks to a trade with New York City FC. This wasn’t some routine swap—Columbus sent over general allocation money (GAM) to NYCFC to get their man.

In MLS, GAM gives clubs the wiggle room to sign players or trim down salary charges. It’s a tool for flexibility, and teams use it to build rosters that can win.

Here’s the quick breakdown on his move:

Date	From	To	Transfer Type	Details
April 2023	NYCFC	Columbus Crew	Trade (GAM exchanged)	Multi-year deal

Both clubs recognized Amundsen’s value and what he could do for their lineups. These kinds of investments usually set the bar for what a player’s expected to deliver. If you’re curious about his numbers and transfer history, his Transfermarkt profile is worth a look.

Contract Extension and Terms

The Crew didn’t hesitate to lock Amundsen in for the long haul. In August 2024, they extended his contract through the end of the 2027 season. His agency, the CMA Group, handled the deal, and it’s a clear sign of trust from the club brass.

This multi-year extension gives Amundsen some real security, and the Crew get a stable piece for their defense.

Check out the contract details:

Extension Date	Contract Ends	Player Agent	Club
August 2024	December 2027	CMA Group	Columbus Crew

Crew fans can count on seeing Amundsen anchoring the backline for years. That extension keeps him right at the heart of Columbus’s defensive plans. You can read all the details in the official Crew announcement.

Previous Clubs and International Experience

Malte Amundsen’s road to the Crew took him through Denmark, Germany, and the U.S. Every stop along the way shaped him into the defender he is today.

Vejle Boldklub Achievements

When Amundsen played for Vejle Boldklub, coaches trusted him in big moments. He joined up in 2019 and became a key figure during their push for promotion.

In the 2019-20 season, he played 53 matches and scored twice. He anchored the defense and read the game well.

Vejle’s return to the Danish Superliga was a big deal, and Amundsen’s consistency really mattered. His presence lifted the squad after a tough season. Fans and coaches praised his work rate, his knack for tracking runners, and that left-footed passing.

If you take a closer look, you’ll see he wasn’t just a regular—he was one of the most reliable guys on the field during that huge campaign.

Here’s a quick stat sheet from his Vejle days:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Promotion Achieved
2019-21	53	2	2019-20

Want more? Check out his Crew profile.

Stint at New York City FC

After making noise in Denmark, Amundsen headed to Major League Soccer. He signed with New York City FC and jumped right into the action.

At NYCFC, Amundsen started regularly. He built a reputation as a quick, smart left-back who understood the tactical side of things.

He played in high-stakes matches, including playoff runs, and kept his cool under pressure. Amundsen shut down wide attacks and joined the offense with some sharp overlapping runs.

Coaches and fans noticed his steady defense and his willingness to push forward. Those games gave him valuable experience against some of the league’s best.

His solid play made other MLS clubs take notice, which set up his eventual move to Columbus.

Playing in Danish Superliga

Amundsen’s story really starts in Denmark’s top league. He played for Vejle Boldklub after coming over from HB Køge.

He featured in Superliga games before and after Vejle’s promotion. Facing top attackers, Amundsen had to shut down some serious talent.

He earned a reputation for quick recoveries and tough tackles. The league’s tactical demands helped him sharpen his instincts and mature as a player.

You could see the growth in his technical skills and ability to read the game. Those early years in Denmark laid the foundation for everything that followed.

European Club Experience

Before MLS, Amundsen spent time with clubs across Europe. He started at HB Køge, took a loan to Eintracht Braunschweig, and had a stint at Rosenborg BK in Norway.

Those experiences in Germany and Norway really broadened his understanding of the game. He adapted to different systems, learned from new coaches, and faced a variety of opponents.

Even when he didn’t get a ton of minutes, training and competing at that level prepared him for bigger challenges. That journey across Denmark, Germany, and Norway gave him the tools to succeed in leagues like the Danish Superliga and MLS.

For the full rundown on his European background, check his player profile.

Notable Competitions and Matches

You can watch Malte Amundsen make his mark in some of the Crew’s biggest matches lately. His strong defending and key plays have helped Columbus push deep into cup competitions and playoff runs.

Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup Performances

In the Leagues Cup, Amundsen has delivered when it counts against top teams. Remember those games against LA Galaxy and LAFC? His marking and timely tackles shut down some dangerous attacks on the wing.

His positional sense kept the Crew defense organized and calm, even when things got hectic.

In the U.S. Open Cup, he played a big role too. Against FC Cincinnati, his defending stood out.

He held the backline steady during tense moments and helped the team advance. His knack for intercepting passes and launching counters made him a difference-maker in knockout games.

Here’s how his stats stack up in those tournaments:

Competition	Appearances	Clean Sheets	Assists	Key Interceptions
Leagues Cup	4	2	1	7
U.S. Open Cup	3	1	1	5

Concacaf Champions Cup Involvement

In the Concacaf Champions Cup, Amundsen has shown real resilience. He’s faced off against some of the region’s toughest attackers from clubs like D.C. United and Minnesota United.

He read passes and won possession in big moments. Even against tough opposition, Amundsen never looked rattled.

You probably remember his one-on-one defending against speedy forwards. He made crucial clearances to break up attacks in the final third.

His communication with teammates kept things organized during high-pressure stretches. Whether he slid in to block a cross or stepped up to clear danger, Amundsen’s presence always stood out on the continental stage.

Standout Goals and Playoff Moments

Even as a defender, Amundsen has chipped in with some big moments up front, especially in playoff games. In a memorable clash against Atlanta United, he scored a crucial goal off a set piece.

His celebration? All business, totally locked in.

During the playoffs, coaches trusted him to start and finish matches. He played every minute against tough squads like Orlando City FC.

His last-ditch tackles and goal-line stops helped push the Crew toward victory. Amundsen’s calm under pressure set a great example for the younger guys.

He didn’t just keep the ball out—he turned defense into attack when it mattered.

Recognition, Awards, and Contributions

Amundsen’s been a steady, respected force on the Crew’s backline. His dedication shows in his play and in the way he shapes team culture and supports the Columbus community.

Kirk Urso Heart Award

Malte Amundsen earned the Kirk Urso Heart Award, an honor given to the player who best embodies the spirit of Kirk Urso—a Crew player remembered for his leadership and heart.

This isn’t just about being the best athlete. The award recognizes dedication, perseverance, and the ability to inspire.

Amundsen’s work ethic and never-quit attitude set him apart. It’s rare for a new arrival to earn this kind of honor so quickly.

His impact was felt on and off the field, making him just the 10th player to receive the award since it started.

Leadership and Locker Room Impact

You see Amundsen’s influence in how he connects with teammates and keeps standards high every day. Coaches and players talk about his willingness to mentor young talent and help others get comfortable in MLS.

In the locker room, Amundsen brings positive energy and communicates openly. That approach builds trust and brings the team together.

He’s not the loudest guy, but he brings stability and leads by example. That’s the kind of presence that helps everyone thrive.

Leadership Snapshot

Attribute	Assessment
Plays Under Pressure	Consistently calm
Peer Support	Highly respected
Communication	Clear and inclusive
Unity Building	Strong contributor

Community and Club Contributions

Off the field, Amundsen makes time for Crew supporters and gives back to Columbus. He joins charity events, visits schools, and gets involved in soccer clinics.

These efforts go beyond just boosting the club’s image. They create real connections between the team and the city.

Soccer is his job, but Amundsen knows being visible in Columbus matters. By showing up and getting involved, he helps build the values the Crew and teammates like Issa Tall represent every day.

Key Teammates, Rivals, and Relationships

Malte Amundsen’s time with the Crew is shaped by the people around him. The bonds he’s built with key teammates have helped the Crew stay strong defensively, while certain rivals push him to raise his game in MLS.

Influential Teammates

In Columbus, you’ll spot Amundsen teaming up with fullback Mohamed Farsi all the time. Their partnership on that left side? It’s hard to miss.

Farsi’s got real pace, and that opens up space for Amundsen to cover ground or push forward himself. When you watch them, you can just feel the way their chemistry changes the match.

Columbus gets more flexibility in defense and attack because of that combo.

Issa Tall, who’s still a young defender, benefits a lot from playing next to Amundsen. Amundsen’s positioning and communication really help Tall find his footing.

When Amundsen’s out there, Tall can lean into his own strengths. You’ll often see Tall step up in the center while Amundsen locks down the edge.

Let’s take a quick peek at the numbers:

Player	Appearances	Tackles per Game	Interceptions per Game
M. Amundsen	28	2.4	1.7
Mohamed Farsi	27	2.0	1.9
Issa Tall	20	2.1	1.4

Amundsen brings leadership and a steady hand, no question about it. He’s become a reliable fixture whenever the Crew need to trust their back line in those tense moments.

If you’re curious, you can always find more at the Columbus Crew official site..

Notable Opponents

Let’s talk about Amundsen going head-to-head with MLS forwards—these matchups really put his skills under the spotlight. When he lines up against top wingers from clubs like New York City FC, where he used to play, there’s always this extra layer of drama. You can feel the tension, right? These games get physical fast and, honestly, they test every bit of his tactical awareness. Check out this example.

Coaches usually ask him to mark the quick, technical guys. In those battles with Philadelphia Union and Atlanta United, Amundsen doesn’t back down from one-on-ones. He jumps right into those moments that could swing the whole match. That’s where you see his sharp tackling and quick reads shine.

Even when some of the league’s most aggressive attackers put the pressure on, he keeps his cool. He mixes physical play with smart positioning, especially when Columbus faces those teams that just love to rack up goals.

Every contest shows how seriously he prepares for each opponent. He tweaks his game as needed to help the Crew stay right in the thick of things through the grind of an MLS season. Here’s a deeper dive.