cincinnati ( Associated Press) – Brendan Aaronsson was watching Leeds’ season finale against Brentford at a cafe in Vienna a while back. The American midfielder had a deal to join the Whites, but it was dependent on the existence of the Premier League.
“I’m sweating there and walking around the cafe,” he said of the May 22 match. “And, yes, it was hard to watch, but they got the job done. … and there I was the next day.
Aaronson’s contract was announced on Friday, a five-year deal for the 21-year-old from Medford, New Jersey. He joined Red Bull Salzburg from Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union in January 2021, when Jesse Marsh was coach of the Austrian team, and reunited with Marsh in Leeds.
Aronsen last season had six goals and 10 assists in 41 appearances in all competitions as Salbazar won their ninth consecutive league title and fourth consecutive Austrian Cup. He has scored five goals in 18 internationals and is on the US roster for four World Cup preparation matches next month.
“I think I’ve got a little definition of the player Leeds wants, and I think I fit into that,” he said. “They celebrate a tackle like a goal. And I’m going to be the guy who’s not only going to be the creative outlet… I’m going to be the guy who’s working hard, and that’s what Leeds is for. “
At the World Cup in November, the US opens against Ukraine, Wales or Scotland, then plays England and Iran.
“We’re going to the World Cup to win it,” Aaronson said. “We’re not the only participants.”
Note: With Jack Stephens not attending US training camp, Matt Turner of New England is likely to start. Turner transfers to Arsenal in July and projects as backup for Aaron Ramsdale, a role similar to Stefan’s behind Ederson at Manchester City. “I’ve been playing very well in MLS for the better part of three years, and given the transfer environment especially for goalkeepers, this is the first real interest, the first real offer that I have,” Turner said. “Being a week-in, week-out starter in MLS didn’t guarantee me being a starter for the national team here. … I needed to turn things around in my club career.”
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