(Credit: Imago)

Jacob Raw

Wed 29 April 2026 10:10, UK

Brenden Aaronson’s poor miss against Chelsea just about summed him up as a Leeds United player, with eyes now turning to Daniel Farke.

The Whites boss has been a huge fan of Aaronson since arriving at Elland Road, but it has left many supporters feeling frustarted.

The American missed a one-on-one opportunity against Chelsea, and had he buried it, Leeds may have booked themselves in the final of the FA Cup.

Farke has backed the attacking midfielder through thick and thin, but now may be the time for a permanent change in LS11.

Aaronson could be dropped for Leeds following the defeat to Chelsea, but if he’s not, then there’s a good chance of this issue following the Whites into next season.

Why Brenden Aaronson could remain a starter for Leeds next season

Leeds signed Facundo Buonanotte in January to provide competition to Aaronson, but most fans would say they don’t even know how good the former is due to his lack of game time.

This is down to Farke’s preference in playing Aaronson, who could keep an important role at Elland Road next campaign, despite a poor season.

Leeds’ next game is against Burnley this Friday, and considering that Anton Stach is back fit, you’d think the obvious player to take out would be Aaronson.

Farke has shown that he isn’t as stubborn as most Leeds fans think, and that was seen when he finally decided to change to a five-at-the-back formation earlier in the season, which may be the reason for the Whites staying in the Premier League.

Chelsea wasn’t the only head-in-the-sand moment for him, as Clinton Morrison called Aaronson “terrible” after his miss against Burnley in the 2-0 loss earlier this season.

With that said, Farke’s preference to start Aaronson will be tested during the last few games of the season, and if he keeps his spot, that could be telling of what happens next campaign.

Who could Leeds sign to replace Aaronson?

With Leeds’ Premier League status almost confirmed for another season, Farke should look at experimenting with what could work, not what he already knows that doesn’t.

Aaronson has been through a few purple patches, especially during the period around Christmas time, but since then, he’s offered the Whites next to nothing.

Keeping him as a squad player would be a smart move, as there is no doubt over his energy and availability, but quality is a big question mark.

Leeds are said to be monitoring Harvey Elliott, who is currently on loan at Aston Villa from Liverpool.

Arne Slot’s side is likely to sell Elliott this summer, and the Whites could make a shrewd upgrade on Aaronson by signing the Liverpool star.