St. Louis CITY: Navigating a Transformative Season Toward 2025

St. Louis CITY’s remarkable debut season, marked by an impressive 56 points that placed them at the top of the Western Conference, was evident to keen observers as being built on smoke and mirrors. Last year’s Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, where Sporting Kansas City exposed their weaknesses, left little doubt about the unsustainability of their initial success.

Kudos to sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel, who recognized the need for change, albeit a transfer window later than ideal. The lack of significant moves last winter ultimately hindered St. Louis’s 2024 campaign. However, with a new focus on rebuilding, CITY is now in a stronger position to move forward into 2025 as a team capable of consistent victories—and perhaps playing more attractive soccer along the way.

1. A Near Complete Overhaul

The front office made it clear they understood the 2023 team had been a flash in the pan by firing the head coach and replacing over half the starting lineup. This drastic action indicated that Pfannenstiel and club president/GM Diego Gigliani felt the previous squad was not up to par, leading to a recruitment drive that has significantly bolstered the roster.

The new arrivals, particularly the attacking trio of Marcel Hartel, Simon Becher, and Cedric Teuchert, have quickly made a positive impact since joining in the summer transfer window. The revamped roster is now performing at a much higher level, with CITY showcasing their potential on the pitch.

2. A Reworking of the Game Model

Bradley Carnell, previously rooted in the Red Bull soccer philosophy, was dismissed early in the summer as the team struggled. While it seemed a bit harsh at the time—given that he hadn’t had a chance to work with the new talent—his direct and fast-paced game model was misaligned with the club’s new direction.

Interestingly, St. Louis, a city with a rich history of producing technically proficient players, had initially adopted a high-energy, crash-and-bang approach. Fans expressed a desire for a style that reflected more tactical nuance, akin to Columbus Crew rather than a hockey-like forecheck.

With Carnell’s departure, John Hackworth stepped in as interim head coach, facilitating a shift in playing style. CITY has become more patient and possession-oriented while still maintaining a vertical approach. Although their overall record stands at 7 wins, 7 losses, and 3 draws under Hackworth, their post-Leagues Cup performance—4 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws—suggests a promising trend for the future.

3. Roman Bürki: A Goalkeeper’s Brilliance

While not quite at the godly level of his inaugural season, Roman Bürki remains one of the top goalkeepers in North America. Heading into 2025, he’s poised to be a contender for his second Goalkeeper of the Year award—if the club can solidify their central defense.

Key Players to Build Around

• Bürki (GK): Still the cornerstone of the defense.
• Teuchert (AM): His versatility as a second striker or attacking midfielder has made a significant impact.
• Hartel (LW/AM): The primary creator for the team, playing best on the left wing in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
• Eduard Löwen (CM): Benefiting from the new signings, Löwen is now thriving as a No. 8 in a double pivot.
• Becher (FW): His contributions have outperformed those of João Klauss, enhancing the team’s overall effectiveness.

Looking Ahead

The primary focus now should be on determining if Hackworth is the right man to lead this team into 2025 and beyond. His tenure has shown notable improvements in gameplay and results, fostering a positive team culture.

However, concerns linger regarding their underlying statistics. Furthermore, there is an urgent need to address the central defense, as players like Jannes Horn, who has primarily played left back since his arrival, and Henry Kessler, who has struggled to regain his previous form, are not providing the stability needed. Joakim Nilsson and other squad players do not appear to have the caliber to anchor a playoff-contending team.

While the defensive midfield appears more promising with Chris Durkin and Jake Girdwood-Reich, this group still lacks the distinction of past successful teams.

Overall, an impressive summer transfer window has laid the foundation for St. Louis CITY. With critical decisions ahead, the club looks poised to build upon their experiences and emerge as a formidable contender in the coming seasons.