Brenden Aaronson in action for Leeds United
Credit: Imago
Mark Smith
Mon 1 June 2026 7:10, UK
Brenden Aaronson will not be happy with Mauricio Pochettino as the Leeds United star began preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
The American star enjoyed some quality moments in the Premier League last season, and it was enough to earn his spot in the USMNT for their home tournament.
Despite Leeds fans being heavily split on Aaronson, his country loves him.
Daniel Farke shares that appreciation, too, with nobody in the Leeds squad making more appearances than the former RB Salzburg man last season.
Given his added exposure in the Premier League, many backed Aaronson to be starting for his country in the World Cup, but the Leeds star didn’t get that pleasure on Sunday.
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Brenden Aaronson left behind already
Signed under Jesse Marsch, Aaronson has never quite hit the heights expected of him.
Leeds were relegated in his first season at Elland Road, and after leaving on loan the year after, he returned to play a big role in them returning to the Premier League as champions.
This time around, he probably exceeded expectations around Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor, coming up with some massive goals around the New Year.
Brenden Aaronson Premier League 25/26
Appearances (Starts) 37 (30)
Goals (Assists) 4 (5)
Aaronson in Premier League for Leeds in 25/26
But, it clearly wasn’t enough to rise the standings of Pochettino and the USMNT.
On Sunday, the Americans beat Senegal 3-2 in an impressive warm-up victory, but Aaronson was one of only two outfield players left on the bench.
Haji Wright of Coventry was the other, as Pochettino made 11 changes to his entire starting XI throughout the game at the Bank of America Stadium.
What’s next for Brenden Aaronson and USMNT?
Next up is a huge test against Germany on 6 June, where Aaronson will be desperate to get on the pitch and make an impact ahead of the World Cup.
One week later, the home nation kicks off their tournament against Paraguay, with later group games against Australia and Turkiye to follow.
If Aaronson doesn’t play a decent role against the Germans, he has very little chance of significant minutes once the World Cup gets underway.
Brenden Aaronson of Leeds United during the Premier League match vs Wolves.
Credit: Imago
With only one year left on his contract in LS11, the World Cup is the last chance to improve his value to be sold on, or even earn another extension.
As a squad player, many would accept Aaronson with open arms at Elland Road, but Farke must learn to use him wisely, rather than starting him every single week.
Take a leaf from Pochettino’s book; that’s the only way Leeds are going to keep improving.