Honest Larry Nance Jr gives verdict on much-criticised Leeds United player Brenden Aaronson

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Of Leeds United’s players, it is fair to say that Brenden Aaronson probably gets more criticism than any other. Illan Meslier may be an exception, but Aaronson has retained his starting spot.

It may be off the back of being one of eight players to use Victor Orta’s loan clause in 2023, jumping ship after relegation and joining German side Union Berlin, who were in the Champions League at the time.

Aaronson also cost Leeds a whopping £25m fee, and that weighs heavily on his shoulders. Shoulders that are also often criticised, given Aaronson’s lack of strength and ability to keep the ball under pressure.

That has actually improved as the season has got older and eventually come to an end, with Aaronson starting 44 of 46 Championship games and coming on as a sub in two others. Incredible availability.

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Larry Nance Jr leaps to defence of Leeds man Brenden Aaronson

Leeds need a no.10 this summer and Daniel Farke has shared no secret of wanting competition or an improvement on USA star Aaronson. But there is a theory that Leeds are a better side with Aaronson.

Farke has also made it clear that Aaronson basically plays two positions as a 10, because of his stamina and energy. A striker when attacking, a midfielder when not. Nance Jr praised Aaronson on The Athletic.

“I’m a Brenden fan. I see my basketball style in him. No real gaudy numbers in terms of goal output. But if you look at all the in-between numbers, the tactical side of the game, we are better with him,” he said.

Why Brenden Aaronson could consider an exit this summer

But if Leeds do make a move to sign a no.10, which is likely to be a possibility for The Whites in the coming weeks and months, then Aaronson may consider leaving Leeds if he is going to lack game time.

Aaronson was dropped from the USA squad by Mauricio Pochettino in the last international break and with the 2026 World Cup being staged in America – and Mexico and Canada – he needs to shine.

He needs to impress Pochettino to win his place back and be picked for the 2026 World Cup squad. If he is warming the bench because Leeds have signed a no.10, he won’t do that. Aaronson could leave.