Leeds United’s Brenden Aaronson on Scoresheet Against Manchester United

Written By Gareth Hinton | Published at August 13, 2026

Aug 2, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Leeds United midfielder Brenden Aaronson (11) shoots the ball for a goal against Liverpool during the second half of a friendly at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United continued their pre-season with a fixture against fellow English Premier League side Manchester United in Dublin.

Despite the game being a "friendly," there is no love lost when it comes to Leeds and Man United, as both teams are rivals in the EPL.

Aaronson Shines in Ireland

USA international Aaronson has a big season ahead at Elland Road. He was instrumental for Leeds last term, featuring in all but one EPL game, scoring four goals.

Manager Daniel Farke is a big admirer of the American, and Aaronson played 45 minutes of the friendly with Man United. The 25-year-old got his name on the scoresheet and impressed in the first period.

Aaronson’s goal canceled out Joshua Zirkzee’s 16th-minute opener. The game finished 1-1 in normal time, with the Red Devils winning 5-4 on penalties at Croke Park.

Leeds Man Not Favored in World Cup

Despite being a fan favorite at Elland Road, Aaronson was not given much of a chance to showcase his talent for his national team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He was fit and ready, but the Leeds man played just 77 minutes for USA, featuring in the 3-2 loss to Turkey at SoFi Stadium. He will be eager to get back into Mauricio Pochettino’s plans by kicking on for his club this season.

Can United Spring a Surprise in the EPL?

Leeds was promoted from the EFL Championship at the end of the 2024-25 season, so staying in the top tier was the club’s priority last term. United was never in danger of relegation, finishing in 14th.

Leeds has made some nice additions to the team, spending big money on James Trafford and Tarik Muharemovic. Harry Wilson, who starred for Fulham last season, has joined the club on a free transfer.

Farke’s boys will be pushing for a top-half finish in the EPL this season. Leeds kicks off the new campaign with a trip to Nottingham Forest next weekend. Can Aaronson and his teammates start with three points?