Aaronson's First of 2026

Midfielder's Clinical Finish Highlights Leeds' Resurgence Against Manchester United

Brenden Aaronson netted his second goal of the season as Leeds United extended their unbeaten streak to seven matches with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Elland Road on Sunday.

The 25-year-old American midfielder broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute with a clinical finish that sent the home crowd into raptures. Aaronson capitalized on a moment of uncertainty from United defender Ayden Heaven, who failed to recognize the danger as the Leeds playmaker lurked on his shoulder. Seizing the loose ball, Aaronson took a composed touch before slotting past goalkeeper Senne Lammens into the bottom-right corner.

"To be honest, I was just running in behind to see if I could get lucky," Aaronson explained afterward. "Sometimes you have to take a chance. The ball came to me, I think the centre-back didn't know that I was going to be running off his shoulder like that. I took a good touch, and then it's about putting it on target."

The goal showcased Aaronson's improved decision-making and finishing, earning widespread praise from manager Daniel Farke. "He deserves all the plaudits at the moment," Farke said. "His work rate was never in doubt. He always works as sucks off for the team. The good thing is he has more clarity in his situations, and it's a bit more tidy in his solutions, in the passing, in the finishing."

Aaronson's all-around performance was exceptional, recording 51 touches, 26 passes, two shots, and nine defensive contributions during his 87 minutes on the pitch. His tireless pressing and defensive work epitomized Leeds' team-first mentality. The display earned Aaronson 74% of the fan vote for Player of the Match—his second such honor this season. Though Matheus Cunha equalized just three minutes later, Aaronson's goal underscored his renaissance at Leeds. He has now recorded more goals and goal involvements this season than during his entire 2022-23 campaign, cementing his importance to Leeds' push for Premier League safety.