Aaronson's First Goal in Europe

On This Day in 2021, Aaronson Made His Impact Just Five Games into His RB Salzburg Career

Brenden Aaronson's move to FC Red Bull Salzburg in January 2021 marked a historic milestone for both the player and the club. The $6 million transfer fee and possible $3 million with incentives set a record for an MLS homegrown player. The deal also included a sell-on clause, ensuring Philadelphia would receive 10-20% of any future transfer fee.

For the 19-year-old from Medford, New Jersey, who had risen through Philadelphia Union's academy since age 11, it was the realization of a lifelong dream. "It's going to be challenging, but it's something that I've wanted to do my entire life," Aaronson said. "I am so happy it's coming true."

Salzburg's sporting director, Christoph Freund, highlighted what drew them to the young American: "His dynamism and his presence on the field are extraordinary for a 19-year-old. Despite his young age, he already has an excellent feeling for making the right decisions on the pitch." 

Just over a month into his European career, Aaronson opened his Salzburg account spectacularly during a 3-1 victory over Austria Wien on February 10. With the score tied 1-1 in the 72nd minute, the American midfielder collected the ball with his back to goal inside the penalty area. Showing remarkable composure amid three defenders, he turned and carved out just enough space to curl a right-footed shot inside the far post, giving Salzburg a lead they wouldn't relinquish.

Beyond the goal, Aaronson impressed throughout the match, contributing to the build-up of Sekou Koita's equalizer. He showcased his technical flair with an audacious backheel save along the touchline that energized the crowd and earned a free kick. The match also featured a unique American connection, as Aaronson faced off against compatriot Erik Palmer-Brown, who was on loan to Austria Wien from Manchester City.

"It was fantastic to be there for the team," Aaronson said. "Austria really tested us, and it was, therefore, a really important win. The confidence we gained in recent weeks carried us through when we went behind."

His manager Jesse Marsch was equally impressed: "We showed mentality and fearlessness. I'm pleased for the two guys to get their first goals. I am sure that we will see a lot more from Brenden."

Under Marsch's guidance, Aaronson flourished as Salzburg pursued its eighth consecutive league title. His development reached another milestone in May, when he scored in Salzburg's 3-0 victory over LASK Linz in the Austrian Cup final, helping secure the club's third straight cup trophy.

It was Aaronson's fourth goal across all competitions, validating his European ambitions and Philadelphia Union's academy vision. As his former sporting director, Ernst Tanner, noted: "It is the dream of every American prospect here to play on the highest level in Europe, and Brendan is the first proof of concept if you will."

Aaronson's success at Salzburg continued into the 2021-22 season, during which the midfielder scored six goals and contributed 10 assists in 41 matches in all competitions. This earned him a big-money $30 million move to Leeds United in the Premier League. Because of the add-ons from Aaronson's transfer from Philadelphia to Salzburg, the US club profited an additional $3-6 million on top of that $6 million transfer fee.