St. Louis City SC will launch its new season on Saturday, embarking on a journey of transition with fresh faces and tempered expectations from Major League Soccer analysts. This marks the team’s fourth season since it became an MLS expansion franchise, and the first under new head coach Yoann Damet and sporting director Corey Wray.
Notably, the squad will play without its leading goal scorer Joao Klauss, who has been transferred to the LA Galaxy, a significant change for the team. Despite ambitions to win every match, Damet reassured fans that Saturday’s encounter against Charlotte FC is not categorized as a “must-win.” He expressed that there won’t be a rush to panic in the early season, emphasizing the importance of building and learning as a team.
Historically, City SC had a solid start, clinching the Western Conference title in its inaugural year, but faced challenges in 2024 and 2025, leading to the dismissal of two head coaches and two interim leaders. Many analysts are predicting another tough year, placing City SC near the bottom of the conference standings and suggesting it may struggle to reach the playoffs.
In terms of playing style, Damet has promised fans an engaging brand of soccer, focusing on greater ball control and a direct attacking approach. He seeks to manage expectations while maintaining a focus on long-term development rather than immediate results. “If we can perform up to the level of our standards and our expectation in terms of how we want to play, that’s what we can control,” he stated.
As the season opens, the team is in the process of finalizing a loan deal for Venezuelan striker Sergio Cordova, who is expected to join from a Swiss club. However, he will not be available for the season opener, nor will defender Mamadou Mbacke Fall, who is waiting for a visa. Additionally, injuries have affected other potential starters.
Wingback Conrad Wallem, who transitioned from being on loan to a permanent contract, highlighted the returning players’ camaraderie and chemistry established during the preseason. “It’s already a group and there is a group dynamic that’s there,” Wallem said, underscoring that the team is prepared and eager to begin the season.
Wallem expressed a deep commitment to the city and its fans, promising to make an impact over the coming years. He is excited about the style of play being implemented and believes it will resonate well with fans.
City SC is set to kick off its season against Charlotte FC at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday at Energizer Park, marking a pivotal moment in the club’s history as it seeks to forge a new identity amidst ongoing transformation. With the right focus and performance, there remains hope for positive progress this season.