American media reacts to Leeds United loanee Brenden Aaronson display in USA v Germany
Leeds United loanee Brenden Aaronson played for the USA as they suffered a defeat to Germany on Saturday (14 October).
The 22-year-old midfielder came off the bench to replace Timothy Weah on 65 minutes as his side fell to a 3-1 loss at Rentschler Field in Connecticut.
Christian Pulisic opened the scoring for the hosts on 27 minutes before goals from Ilkay Gundogan, Niclas Fullkrug and Jamal Musiala turned things around for the Germans in the international friendly.
American media has been reacting to the performance of Aaronson, with the MLS Soccer website claiming he was probably the most impactful substitute as his “nifty footwork” won a dangerous late free-kick, adding that it was a “fun showcase” of his quality despite him drilling the ensuing attempt into the wall.
CBS Sports wasn’t quite as flattering, though, as it said the midfielder “struggled to impact the game” when he came on after it has been a “tough start” to the season for him. It also warned that he could fall down the national team pecking order if he “doesn’t pick things up soon” due to the logjam of wing and midfield talent available.
ESPN believes the American was a “bit of a spark” in the midfield, but that he “couldn’t provide any creativity” to create further chances.
To continue the mixed reaction amongst the media to Aaronson’s display, GOAL said he was as “lively as always” and that he was the only USA sub to “really make Germany nervous”.
Conflicting
There are clearly some conflicting opinions within the American media on the impact Aaronson had for his side after coming off the bench in the second half.
It sounds as though he provided some energy, which is one of his trademarks, but he didn’t have too much of an impact with the ball.
It’s interesting that CBS was that damning in its reaction to his performance that it suggested he could drop down the pecking order within the national team setup, potentially causing a real concern for the on-loan Union Berlin man.
The midfielder has really struggled to make an impact since leaving Elland Road for the Bundesliga side this season, having failed to score or register an assist in the opening eight games of the campaign.
He will be hoping his fortunes turn around quickly for the national team and at club level as he looks to get his career back on track after a difficult year.
In other Leeds United news, a big-money Chelsea signing seemed to slam a Whites star after what he did on international duty.