João Klauss de Mello

João Klauss de Mello is a forward who attacks space, runs beyond the line, and pins centre-backs with his target-forward frame for St. Louis City SC. João Klauss began in Europe with TSG Hoffenheim in 2017 before making a move to HJK Helsinki. He won the Veikkausliiga title. In 2019-2020 he was loaned to LASK, scoring 24 goals across all competitions. In 2022 he became St. Louis City SC's first Designated Player and helped the club rise in the Western Conference. João Klauss continues to threaten the channel and finish moves, using his 1.90m frame to body defenders. He checks runs, links play in the box, and finishes chances after one-touch layoffs. This season he drives at defenders with purpose.