Why Mauricio Pochettino decision could leave Brenden Aaronson with answer to Leeds future

Leeds United's Brenden Aaronson did not have the World Cup he would have hoped for.

The USA had looked to progress deep in the 2026 tournament with it being on home soil.

Mauricio Pochettino's men fell to Belgium in the round of 16 and for Aaronson, he departed the competition with little to no impact.

The American midfielder appeared in just on match for the USA, a dead-rubber in the final group match against Turkey with his nation already guaranteed top spot.

Aaronson is seemingly not well-favoured enough by Pochettino in order to get minutes, even from the bench.

And that could hand the American an answer as to what is the next step to his career.

Why Brenden Aaronson may need Leeds exit to secure USA role

MOT Leeds News have reported on the fact that Aaronson's contract expires at the end of this upcoming season.

If there are no talks over an extension at Elland Road, the Whites could look to bring in some funds, rather than lose him for free.

Now, reports from David Ornstein has shared that USA manager Pochettino is in talks to extend his national team contract.

If that is the case, Aaronson would need to have guaranteed game time in order to potentially work his way up the Argentine's plans, and that may not be the case at Leeds now.

Leeds are in the market for a number ten, with a concrete proposal for Julian Brandt on the table.

Additionally, Pavel Sulc is another option for Leeds, with the LS11 outfit holding talks for the Czech.

So, with Pochettino seemingly close to staying as USA manager and his minutes potentially being under threat, Aaronson has a decision to make and that could be to leave.

If he is to move on, the Whites may be open to allowing that due to the aforementioned contract situation.

How does Daniel Farke feel about Aaronson?

Daniel Farke has never been one to shy away from talking about one of his players.

And with Aaronson, that is also the case.

The German is a big fan of the work ethic that the American showcases on the pitch but admitted he has annoyed him in the past.

Speaking November 2025, as relayed by BBC Sport, Farke said: "Brenden is a player who polarises and can annoy even myself; he can be a bit hectic.

"But he has so many skills, gives everything to his team, is not perfect but leaves everything on the pitch."

However, that annoyance is seemingly outweighed by those moments where he gives everything.

That was evident with Aaronson starting 30 of the 38 Premier League games last season.