The Power of Relationships: A Conversation with Rasmus Alm

In soccer, effective communication is vital for victory, since successful execution of the game plan hinges on mutual understanding. For St. Louis City midfielder, Rasmus Alm, the signing of right-back Tomas Totland marked a pivotal moment. This move facilitated cohesion, boosted Alm's comfort in St. Louis, and laid the foundation for their on-pitch partnership and off-pitch friendship.

Alm reflected on their partnership after a triumphant 1-0 victory against Austin FC, "It's easy when he's a Norwegian because we can speak our own language... He's a good player and a good person as well. So it's easy to play with him."

With their rapport established, Alm and Totland demonstrated their synergy in the 57th minute of a tense match against Austin FC. As St. Louis City pressed for a breakthrough, Alm received a pinpoint pass from Totland, threading through the defense with precision. With a flick of his foot, Alm found foward João Klauss, who slotted home a right-footed shot from the center of the box, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This pivotal goal not only secured victory for the team but also showcased the understanding between Alm, Totland, and Klauss.

Earlier this week, Y98 sideline reporter Jennifer Siess caught up with Alm to discuss his dynamic partnerships with João Klauss and Tomas Totland, as well as Alm's family support and past injuries.

Alm provided insights into the dynamic collaboration he shares with João Klauss,

"With me and Klauss, it's a (good) relationship that we have that we always try to improve," Alm explained. "We're always trying to help each other so we can do more."

He elaborated, stating, "We tried to talk about where the dangerous areas are and how we can get the ball there. I know Klauss as well. If you hit him with a good pass, he will score."

Siess inquired about Alm's partnership with Thomas Totland, to which Alm stated, "We talk a lot about everything outside the pitch, and even though I was out in the beginning of the preseason, we've spent time together."

Alm expressed satisfaction with their recent games but emphasized their potential for improvement, saying, "These two games have been good, but I believe we can do much better."

Regarding their on-field dynamics, Siess questioned Alm about their coverage for each other, to which Alm responded, "In the previous game, we had a cross on the back post, and although I didn't take the ball, I stressed the opponent a bit. This game, he came up in our two-v-one situation on that far post."

Siess reflected on the multifaceted lives of soccer players. "You know, be reminded that you guys aren't just soccer player machines, but you have families, you have a life outside of soccer, and they're probably your best supporters."

Alm, resonating with this sentiment, emphasized the significance of familial bonds, expressing, "Family is everything. And when you can share an amazing thing like this with them, you have to do it."

Alm discussed his own introduction to soccer, tracing it back to his childhood influenced by his older brothers. "I have two older brothers that got me into it," he shared. "My mom always says that I never played with toys, I always played soccer with them."

Transitioning from his upbringing to his current family life, Alm shared heartwarming moments of bringing his own children to the stadium. "They love to be at the stadium. It's an amazing atmosphere. So they're more comfortable on the pitch now,"

Reflecting on his past experiences, Alm shared, 'When I was 15, I got a knee injury, and it was quite bad. So I was out for like two years.'

Despite facing numerous obstacles, Alm persevered, recalling a pivotal moment in his career: 'I got the chance to play my first game with the first team, and I think we won four-zero that game.'

Addressing the mental challenges of dealing with injuries, he revealed, 'The great players show up when it's a tough moment. And I always try to do that with me.'

When asked about what to expect from Sporting Kansas City's atmosphere, Alm mused, "Yeah, they're loud, but I think nothing beats City Park. So hopefully now they're gonna cheer for the other team. Because it's the biggest game rival-wise, for me, that just gives me even more energy." He continued, "Even though they cheer for that team, they give us energy. And I think if we can do what we have done now, we will end up with a good performance and hopefully three points."

Don't miss CITY's next match tonight at 7pm CST on Y98. The broadcast features St. Louis City SC broadcasters Joey Zanaboni, Dale Schilly, and Jennifer Siess.