Brenden Aaronson is quickly becoming one of Leeds United’s most important players this winter.
Aaronson scored his second Premier League goal of the season on Sunday in a 1-1 home draw with Manchester United. The American midfielder earned SBI Americans Abroad Player of the Week honors after delivering his latest strong outing for the Lilywhites.
Aaronson propelled Daniel Farke’s squad in front after 62 minutes, racing onto an upfield pass before drilling a left-footed shot into the far corner. The speedy midfielder outraced Red Devils defender Leny Yoro before showing great finishing abilities in the 18-yard box.
Despite Manchester United tying the match just three minutes later, Aaronson walked away with a strong performance as Leeds United extended its unbeaten run to seven matches.
Aaronson was pleased with getting on the scoresheet against Manchester United at Elland Road, but ultimately admitted he hoped for a better result overall.
“It is great for the team to stay unbeaten,” Aaronson said in a postmatch club interview. “But of course we wanted three points today.
“It is tough because you are fighting the whole game to get good chances, because Man United have great players and they are tough to break down,” he added. “So, you know, you get the chance to score, but then it is about trying to keep the lead.”
Aaronson will aim to retain his starting spot on Wednesday when Leeds United visits Newcastle United in league play. While the festive period is over, the Lilywhites’ schedule remains very busy this winter.
Here is a closer look at this week’s top Americans Abroad performances:
Weston McKennie
Weston McKennie has continued to be amongst the goals for Juventus.
McKennie scored his second goal of the season in Saturday’s 1-1 Serie A draw with Lecce. The American midfielder slotted home the hosts equalizer in the 49th minute, continuing a productive run in Luciano Spalletti’s starting lineup.
McKennie now has four goal contributions in his last six matches.
Aidan Morris
Back-to-back starts for Aidan Morris will surely boost his confidence.
Morris helped Middlesbrough rebound on Sunday with a 4-0 home triumph over Southampton after suffering a 1-0 loss to Derby County midweek. The former Columbus Crew midfielder only recently retuned to the squad after missing time due to a knee injury.
He was one of the better performers on Sunday, completing over 90% of his passes and winning five duels.
Folarin Balogun
AS Monaco may have suffered a home defeat in its return to Ligue 1 action on Saturday but Folarin Balogun walked away with his second assist of the season.
Balogun assisted on the only goal for Monaco in a 3-1 defeat to Lyon. The USMNT forward is continuing to play a key role in the Monaco squad, registering three goal contributions in his last six club appearances.
He is on pace to set a new single season career-high in goals since the 2022-23 campaign.
Josh Sargent
Josh Sargent netted his first goal of the new year for Norwich City.
Sargent scored Norwich City’s opening goal in a 2-1 road victory over QPR, logging 72 minutes at Loftus Road Stadium. He also played 89 minutes in a 2-0 home defeat to Stoke City on Sunday, continuing to find his footing again after missing time due to a concussion.
Norwich City will certainly need Sargent amongst the goals again if it wants to avoid a relegation fight this winter/spring.
What did you think of this weekend’s slate of Americans Abroad action? Is there anyone else deserving of a shout on this list?
Share your thoughts below.
Aaronson playing with unseen poise and confidence on the ball. He is really finding a comfort zone on the right side. Pulling for him to continue playing well and and pulling more out of his potential.
Looks like Damian Downs is headed to Hamburg on loan. Hope this loan is fruitful for him.
Definitely think he could potentially be leading the line for our Olympic team in 2028 as an overage player.