M. Amundsen, Columbus Crew Defender #18: Career, Impact & Stats

If you follow Major League Soccer, you probably look for players who bring consistency and precision every week. That’s what you get from Malte Amundsen, the Columbus Crew defender wearing number 18. He’s got this calm presence and sharp positioning that just seem to anchor the Crew’s back line. You notice how he understands the game’s rhythm, reads plays early, and makes smart choices even when things get hectic.

Born in Herfølge, Denmark, Amundsen grew up in the European system before landing in MLS. He brings a blend of experience and composure that fits right into the Crew’s tactics. After coming over from New York City FC in 2023, he quickly settled in as a regular starter and helped the team win the 2023 MLS Cup. He’s comfortable defending and building up play, making him one of the most reliable left-footed defenders around.

His journey—from Rosenborg to Vejle Boldklub to NYCFC—really shaped who he is as a player now. Those steady performances and his leadership on and off the field even earned him the Crew’s Kirk Urso Heart Award. Before he went pro, Amundsen attended Herfølge Gymnasium, where he first showed that mix of discipline and focus.

Profile of M. Amundsen

You see a player who combines Danish discipline with Major League Soccer experience. Malte Amundsen took a path from Herfølge to Columbus that’s all about steady growth and adaptability. His background and football education in Denmark explain why he’s become such a steady presence in the Crew’s defense.

Personal Background

Malte Meineche Amundsen was born on February 11, 1998, in Herfølge, Denmark. Early on, you get the sense that family and community shaped his calm, team-first mindset. His father, Ole Amundsen, encouraged him to play smart and technical football.

He went to Vejle College, juggling academics and football. That experience helped him mature fast and understand what pro life would demand.

Amundsen started his career in Europe before joining New York City FC in 2021, then moving to the Columbus Crew in April 2023. His agent, CMA Group, negotiated his current contract, which runs through 2027.

He wears number 18 for the Crew, a number that Crew fans now associate with consistency and defensive sharpness. His leadership on and off the field earned him the Kirk Urso Heart Award for his spirit and professionalism.

Physical Attributes

Amundsen stands 1.79 meters (5 feet 10 inches) tall and weighs about 77 kilograms (170 pounds). His build fits the modern fullback role, letting him move upfield quickly while holding his own in one-on-ones.

He plays as a left-footed defender and uses his passing to start attacks from deep. His acceleration and stamina let him track wingers without getting pulled out of position.

Attribute	Measurement / Description
Height	1.79 m
Weight	77 kg
Preferred Foot	Left
Primary Position	Left-back / Centre-back
Shirt Number	18
Club	Columbus Crew
Contract Expiration	31 Dec 2027

He relies on positioning more than risky tackles. His timing and ability to read the game make him valuable in defense and when transitioning forward.

Danish Football Roots

Growing up in Denmark, Amundsen learned to value structure and tactical awareness. Danish academies focus on technical precision, and you see that in his passing and decisions.

He started out with Rosenborg and then moved to Vejle Boldklub, playing over 50 matches and helping them get promoted to the Danish Superliga. That success boosted his confidence before heading abroad.

His stint with Eintracht Braunschweig in Germany added some physical edge to his game. He brought those lessons to MLS, now blending European fundamentals with the faster pace of American soccer.

His Danish roots show in his measured, efficient, team-oriented approach. You see that heritage every time he steps onto the pitch for the Columbus Crew.

Columbus Crew Tenure

Malte Amundsen’s time in Columbus highlights steady growth, reliable defending, and the occasional well-timed attacking moment. His consistency and positioning helped Columbus secure big wins and another MLS Cup.

Joining Columbus Crew

Amundsen joined the Columbus Crew on April 25, 2023, coming over from New York City FC for General Allocation Money. Columbus wanted a proven left-back with MLS experience and a steady presence on the ball.

He debuted in the U.S. Open Cup against Loudoun United, then made his MLS debut a few days later against Orlando City. Right away, you could see his comfort on the ball and how quickly he picked up Wilfried Nancy’s system.

His transition went smoothly because he’s versatile. He played both left-back and center-back, giving the Crew flexibility. His ability to shift positions let teammates like Mohamed Farsi and Yaw Yeboah push up the field more.

He scored his first goals soon after arriving, finding the net in back-to-back games against LA Galaxy and FC Cincinnati. Those moments showed his confidence and growing importance to the club.

Role in Defense

You see Amundsen as a defender who values positioning and awareness. He reads the game, doesn’t overcommit, and intercepts passes before they become dangerous. His left-footed passing helps Columbus build out from the back.

At Lower.com Field, he balanced the left side of the back line. He often tucked inside to form a back three in possession, giving the Crew a stable shape. His passing and calmness under pressure stood out in MLS play.

Defensive Stats (2023 Regular Season)

Category	Total
Matches Played	22
Starts	21
Tackles Won	38
Interceptions	29
Clearances	47
Passing Accuracy	86%

His stats aren’t flashy, but they show efficiency. He rarely lost duels and covered for the midfield when opponents tried to counter. That steady play earned trust from teammates and coaches.

MLS Cup Champion Season

During the 2023 MLS Cup title run, Amundsen played in every postseason match. His long-range goal against Atlanta United in Round One gave Columbus a crucial advantage. He also assisted Yaw Yeboah in the championship match against LAFC, capping off an 11-pass sequence that summed up the Crew’s style.

His defensive reliability freed up others to attack. He led by example in big moments, staying composed when the Crew faced heavy pressure.

The Crew gave him the Kirk Urso Heart Award for his commitment and influence in the locker room. He became known as a quiet leader who set high standards through effort and focus.

His contributions during the championship run put him among the league’s most dependable defenders, showing how experience and adaptability can drive a team to a title.

Key Performances and Highlights

Certain moments stand out. His game-winning goal against New England on October 4 handed the Revolution their first home loss that season. That strike also showed he wasn’t afraid to get forward.

He scored and assisted in the Leagues Cup knockout round against Minnesota United. Those attacking moments highlighted his value as a two-way defender.

At Lower.com Field, fans loved his steady energy and technical control. He worked well with Mohamed Farsi and Yaw Yeboah, forming quick passing triangles to move play down the flanks.

Notable Matches (2023 Season)

Opponent	Result	Contribution
LA Galaxy	2–0 Win	Scored 1 Goal
FC Cincinnati	3–2 Win	Scored 1 Goal
New England	2–1 Win	Game-Winning Goal
LAFC (MLS Cup Final)	2–1 Win	Assist to Yeboah

You see that Amundsen’s time with Columbus is all about consistency and smart play. His mix of defensive discipline and well-timed attacking runs keeps him central to the Crew’s back line.

Playing Style and Strengths

Malte Amundsen reads the game with calm precision. His timing, balance, and decision-making make him a dependable presence for the Crew. As a left-footed defender who can shift between roles, he brings defensive stability and just enough measured support going forward.

Defensive Abilities

Amundsen’s defensive game relies on positioning and awareness. He tracks runners, stays patient, and uses his body to block passing lanes. His time with New York City FC before Columbus helped sharpen his sense of spacing.

He excels one-on-one, using quick footwork and balance to stay in front of attackers. His clearances and interceptions often launch transitions for the Crew instead of just ending plays.

Key Defensive Stats (2025 Season)

Metric	Value
Tackles per match	2.3
Interceptions per match	1.8
Clearances per match	3.5
Aerial duels won (%)	64

Amundsen’s defensive reliability gives Columbus a solid foundation, especially when they’re trying to protect a narrow lead late in games.

Offensive Contributions

Amundsen’s left foot is a real asset going forward. From the back, he delivers accurate long passes and crosses that stretch opposing defenses. As a left-back, he supports overlapping runs and times his entries into the final third smartly.

During the 2023 season, he chipped in with assists and key passes that set up scoring chances, according to MLSsoccer.com. He steps forward to connect with midfielders, which helps keep the Crew’s build-up play moving.

He doesn’t force things, preferring smart, low-risk passes. That patience helps the team keep possession and control the tempo. His offensive work shows a defender who values structure as much as creativity.

Versatility in Positioning

Amundsen adapts to whatever the team needs. He can play as a traditional left-back or slide inside as a centre-back if the system changes. This flexibility gives the Crew options to adjust on the fly without losing shape.

As a left-footed defender, he provides natural width and better passing angles from the back. Coaches count on that versatility against different opponents and in different situations.

He learned this adaptability early, coming through Danish academies before turning pro. Whether the Crew line up with three or four at the back, you can count on him to stay composed and effective.

Transfers, Trades, and Contracts

Malte Amundsen’s career path includes some key moves and smart roster decisions. His arrival in Columbus and his contract extension show how much the Crew value his steady play and long-term potential in Major League Soccer (MLS).

MLS Trades and General Allocation Money

You watched Amundsen join the Columbus Crew on April 25, 2023, after an MLS trade with New York City FC. The Crew spent General Allocation Money (GAM) to make the move happen. That’s pretty standard in MLS roster building. GAM lets teams bring in new players or lower a salary cap hit without breaking league rules.

Before Columbus, Amundsen built up his name with NYCFC after coming over from Vejle Boldklub in Denmark. His steady defending and quick adjustment to MLS made him a go-to starter.

In his first season with the Crew, he started 21 of 22 matches and chipped in three goals and three assists. He scored in the postseason against Atlanta United, which helped the club clinch its third MLS Cup title.

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	Columbus Crew	22	3	3
2021–2022	NYCFC	59	0	4

Contract Extension Details

Columbus rewarded Amundsen’s impact by signing him to a multi-year contract extension through the 2027 season. They announced the deal on August 15, 2024, locking in some defensive stability for a while.

At just 26, Amundsen already picked up the 2023 Kirk Urso Heart Award for leadership and professionalism. The extension recognized both his play and his influence in the locker room.

Transfermarkt listed his market value around €3 million in 2025, which keeps climbing since his arrival in MLS. That number really says a lot about how much the league values defenders who contribute at both ends.

Amundsen grew up developing his game in Denmark before turning pro. He came through Herfølge Boldklub’s youth system and then Vejle’s academy, which set a solid foundation for his MLS run.

Previous Clubs and International Experience

If you trace Malte Amundsen’s path, you’ll see steady progress through Denmark and Europe. His career keeps moving forward, from early days in the Danish Superliga to important roles in Major League Soccer. Playing in different leagues gave him a balanced mix of technical skills and tactical smarts.

Vejle Boldklub Achievements

Looking at Amundsen’s stint at Vejle Boldklub, you find a player who grew up fast. From 2019 to 2021, he played 53 matches and scored two goals for the Danish Superliga side. His steady defending helped Vejle get promoted back to the top division after a tough relegation.

He stabilized the back line during the 2019–20 season. His calm left foot gave Vejle some balance when building from the back.

Vejle Boldklub Performance Summary

Season	Appearances	Goals	Competition
2019–20	28	1	Danish 1st Division
2020–21	25	1	Danish Superliga

His time at Vejle showed he could handle pressure, especially during promotion battles. That kind of experience set him up for bigger leagues like MLS.

Time at New York City FC

Amundsen’s move to New York City FC (NYCFC) in 2021 marked a huge step. He joined a tough Major League Soccer squad and quickly earned regular minutes. Over two seasons, he racked up 59 appearances and made an impact at both ends.

In 2021, he helped NYCFC win the MLS Cup—his first big club trophy. He debuted against D.C. United and later notched his first MLS goal and assist in a 5–0 rout of Orlando City.

NYCFC Career Overview

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Honors
2021	31	1	2	MLS Cup Champion
2022	28	0	3	Playoff Semifinalist

He locked down the left side of defense and earned trust from NYCFC’s coaches. That reliability led to his trade to the Columbus Crew in April 2023, as you’ll see on the Columbus Crew website.

Danish Superliga Experience

Before MLS, Amundsen built his foundation in the Danish Superliga. Playing in Denmark’s top league helped him develop his defensive instincts.

He suited up for teams like Vejle Boldklub and HB Køge, filling in across the back line. Facing strong domestic clubs tested his timing and discipline, traits that now define his game abroad.

His Danish league experience also connected him with the national football system. That background shaped how he reads the game and stays cool under pressure.

European Club Career

Amundsen’s early pro days included stops with Rosenborg BK in Norway and a loan at Eintracht Braunschweig in Germany. At Rosenborg, he played two matches and took in a championship environment.

The loan to Braunschweig in the 2. Bundesliga gave him regular minutes—12 appearances, one goal. Germany’s faster, more physical style pushed him to round out his technical base from Denmark.

European Career Snapshot

Club	Country	Appearances	Goals	Competition
Rosenborg BK	Norway	2	0	Eliteserien
Eintracht Braunschweig	Germany	12	1	2. Bundesliga

Those European experiences helped Amundsen adapt to new systems and environments. By the time he landed in MLS, he’d already faced plenty of tactical variety, making transitions between clubs easier.

Notable Competitions and Matches

You’ve seen Malte Amundsen grow from a steady defender into a key piece of Columbus Crew’s championship runs. His consistent play, timely goals, and sharp defensive reads have left their mark on MLS and beyond.

MLS Cup Playoffs and Title Run

During the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs, Amundsen anchored the Crew’s back line with calm, composed play. He started all six postseason matches, distributing the ball well under pressure.

In Round One against Atlanta United, he hammered home a rare long-range goal—a real golazo for a defender. That strike sparked the Crew’s playoff push.

In the championship against LAFC, Amundsen set up Yaw Yeboah’s winner with a pinpoint assist, capping an 11-pass move that oozed composure. His defensive reads and passing earned him the Kirk Urso Heart Award.

Match	Opponent	Result	Contribution
Round One, Match 3	Atlanta United	4–2 Win	Long-range goal
MLS Cup Final	LAFC	2–1 Win	Assist on game-winner
Total Playoff Starts	6	—	1 Goal, 1 Assist

His playoff form really cemented his reputation as one of the Crew’s most reliable defenders.

Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup Performances

Amundsen’s 2023 season included strong outings in the Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup. He debuted for Columbus in the Open Cup against Loudoun United.

In the Leagues Cup, he started all three matches. Against Minnesota United, he put up both a goal and an assist—a standout game.

He logged important minutes versus LA Galaxy and FC Cincinnati, scoring in both. Those goals showed his knack for well-timed runs into the box, adding an attacking edge to his defensive work.

He kept showing he could adapt across different competitions and formats.

Concacaf Champions Cup Involvement

Amundsen’s experience reached into the Concacaf Champions Cup too. He showed discipline and composure against quicker, more technical teams from Mexico and Central America.

He kept his passing accuracy high and rarely lost defensive duels. His ability to play out from the back helped Columbus keep the ball against heavy pressure.

Even when he didn’t score, he influenced games with recovery tackles and outlet passes that started attacks. His performances in this tournament reflected both his European roots and his growing confidence in big moments.

Standout Goals and Playoff Moments

Amundsen’s goals often came when the Crew needed them most. His game-winning goal against New England on October 4, 2023, handed the Revolution their first home loss all year—a real turning point for Columbus.

That finish showed his awareness to find space and calmly slot it home. Earlier goals against LA Galaxy and FC Cincinnati proved he’s got attacking instincts for a defender.

Each goal mattered, shaping playoff spots and boosting team morale. For someone who started out at Denmark’s Vejle Boldklub and took his lumps in MLS with NYCFC before landing in Columbus, these moments really capture his growth into a dependable two-way player.

Now, when you see number 18 on the pitch, you’re watching a defender who delivers in big matches with a quiet, steady presence.

For more on his club story and match log, check out Columbus Crew’s official player page.

Recognition and Contributions

Malte Amundsen’s consistency and professionalism have shaped the Crew’s defensive identity. His impact stretches beyond the field, showing up in his leadership, community work, and the respect he gets from teammates and fans.

Kirk Urso Heart Award

In 2023, Amundsen received the Kirk Urso Heart Award, honoring the player who best embodies the late midfielder’s spirit and dedication. The club recognized his steady presence during their championship run.

He stayed resilient and focused through a demanding schedule, starting every playoff match and scoring a key goal against Atlanta United. His composure under pressure matched the qualities celebrated by this award.

Season	Matches Played	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2023	22	3	3	1,800+

You can find more about his 2023 season and the award on the Columbus Crew official site.

Leadership and Locker Room Impact

Amundsen’s influence goes far beyond the pitch. In the locker room, you’ll notice his calm voice and direct style. Younger players say he helps them settle into the pace of MLS.

He leads by example, focusing on prep and consistency. Crew staff often point out how he keeps morale steady through rough patches.

You might’ve caught interviews on The CrewView where teammates call him “the voice of reason.” That presence matters when matches get tense and emotions run high. His leadership helps the squad stay organized and confident all season long.

Community and Club Involvement

Amundsen really cares about Columbus—his connection goes way beyond the pitch. You’ll spot him at Tim Hortons charity events, youth soccer clinics, and fan meetups pretty often.

He just shows up, listens, and actually talks with people. There’s nothing flashy about it, but that’s kind of the point.

He pops up in club programs like Crew Feud and Crew Feud 2024 too. These events let players and fans mix it up in some pretty fun competitions.

That kind of face-to-face stuff? It’s what keeps the Crew’s bond with supporters real.

You get the sense he values connection just as much as competition. He’s using his platform to build honest relationships with fans and local groups, not just to play soccer.

Key Teammates, Rivals, and Relationships

Chemistry on the field can be everything, especially for a defender like Malte Amundsen. He has to trust the people around him.

His partnerships on the back line, plus his battles with top MLS attackers, really shape how reliable he is for the Columbus Crew.

Influential Teammates

Amundsen links up with Mohamed Farsi and Yaw Yeboah, giving the Crew a lot of flexibility on both wings.

Farsi’s quickness and those overlapping runs let the team attack higher. Yeboah, meanwhile, hustles back to help balance things out defensively.

When Wessam Abou Ali joined Columbus, his long friendship with Amundsen—going back almost ten years—helped him settle in quickly.

You can see their connection in the way they make quick decisions and keep things calm during tense moments.

Amundsen’s steady play makes life easier for the central pairing, usually Rudy Camacho or Steven Moreira. They count on his positioning and composure.

Together, they form a defensive unit that holds onto possession under pressure and cuts down on mistakes.

Player	Position	Key Trait	Relationship
Mohamed Farsi	Right Wingback	Speed, endurance	Complements Amundsen’s left side
Yaw Yeboah	Left Midfielder	Work rate	Provides cover and width
Wessam Abou Ali	Forward	Finishing, movement	Longtime teammate and friend

Notable Opponents

You really see Amundsen’s defensive sharpness when he faces high-tempo attacks. When he goes up against Atlanta United FC, he has to track quick wingers like Thiago Almada, and that seriously tests his awareness.

Games with Orlando City FC often get physical, especially when he marks strong forwards in the box. Those battles can get pretty intense.

When the Crew play FC Cincinnati, the rivalry brings out a different energy. Amundsen stays calm and distributes the ball well, which helps the team handle Cincinnati’s pressing.

Facing Philadelphia Union or New England Revolution means he has to read crosses early. He also needs to anticipate those tricky second balls.

Then there are the Western Conference teams—LAFC, LA Galaxy, and Minnesota United FC. In these matches, Amundsen’s tactical discipline really shows. His positioning and timing often decide if the Crew hold their line or give up space during transitions.