Brenden Aaronson believes Leeds United can use their underdog status to their advantage against Chelsea — with Liam Rosenior under growing pressure ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final.
The American midfielder admits Leeds are not expected to reach the final, but insists that could work in their favour at Wembley come Sunday afternoon when the Whites take on a struggling Chelsea.
“I think the best thing about it is, you know, we’re of course not the favourites, but that sometimes is a blessing in disguise,” he told ESPN. You go there and just give your all and go and express yourself.”
Did you see Leeds being this safe with five games to go?
Opta have had their say!
Chelsea arrive in dismal form, having lost five consecutive matches without scoring, a run that has piled pressure on Rosenior at the worst possible moment. Confidence appears shot within the squad.
Why Leeds should be confident of FA Cup upset v Chelsea
Questions are mounting over whether the Blues can steady themselves in time for their trip to Wembley, and whether Rosenior will actually be the man opposite Daniel Farke on the touchline.
That backdrop only strengthens Leeds’ belief — and Aaronson is a prime example of why Daniel Farke’s side head into the tie with renewed confidence.
Brenden Aaronson in action for Leeds United
Photo by Neal Simpson/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
The 25-year-old has quietly put together his most convincing season since arriving in England in a £25m deal, contributing four goals and four assists in 31 league appearances.
MORE LEEDS UNITED STORIES
It marks a clear step forward on his previous Premier League campaign in 2022-23, and reflects his growing influence in Leeds’ attacking play. In his first season, he managed just one goal and three assists.
It is a notable turnaround for a player who faced significant scrutiny last summer. Jon Newsome was among those to question whether Aaronson was “good enough” as calls were made for the club to sell.
Instead, the USA international has responded emphatically – becoming a key figure in Farke’s system, combining relentless pressing with improved end product in the final third.
How many points do YOU think Leeds win from the last five PL games?
Three will surely be enough!
Leeds United have enjoyed league success against Chelsea
Leeds will take further encouragement from the fact they have already beaten Chelsea this season, exposing vulnerabilities that remain evident during the London side’s current slump.
Before Rosenior, Leeds faced Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea and beat them 3-1 at Elland Road shortly after Farke switched to a back three. Then, at Stamford Bridge, Leeds came from two behind to draw 2-2.
Still, attention will briefly turn elsewhere before Wembley. Leeds travel to Bournemouth tonight, a fixture that could shape momentum and selection ahead of what is shaping up to be one of the club’s biggest games in years.
But with Chelsea struggling and pressure building on Rosenior, Aaronson’s message is clear — Leeds have nothing to fear. That may be exactly what makes them dangerous.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox