Daniel Farke must avoid Brenden Aaronson mistake in Leeds United vs Brighton, it’s obvious to everyone else
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Credit: Imago Fri 15 May 2026 11:30, UK Brenden Aaronson is a rather decisive figure at Elland Road, and Leeds United can’t afford to fall into a trap with him against Brighton.The 25-year-old has now gone four games without a goal contribution, and despite getting back-to-back assists against Wolves and Man United before that, it is just two goals or assists in 19 games.Although safety in the Premier League has already been confirmed, the Whites will want to end the season on a high, especially after falling short to Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final.Leeds must face Brighton at Elland Road on Sunday, 17 May, and Farke has a difficult decision to make over Aaronson, with the manager potentially without some big names for the clash. ⚽ Leeds United Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert previews and verdicts, and tactical analysis for every Leeds fixture. VISIT THE LEEDS MATCH HUBBrenden Aaronson should fall down the pecking orderOnce again, it would appear that Noah Okafor is a doubt for the penultimate game of the season, so that opens up a spot in the starting lineup for the USA international.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Anton Stach, Willy Gnonto, Lukas Nmecha, Dan James and Sean Longstaff could all be chosen to support Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the final third, but Aaronson has always found a way to sneak into the team.Against Tottenham, however, he was far from at his best, being hooked after just 63 minutes, while failing to battle for the ball adequately, and bringing very little in front of goal.Brenden Aaronson vs TottenhamStats [FotMob]Minutes played63Chances created1Touches26Successful dribbles33% (1/3)Dispossessed3Ground duels won38% (5/13)Fouls won2This is without mentioning his previous performance against the Seagulls. Back in November, the attacking midfielder created just one chance, completed zero dribbles, and was dispossessed three times.He was also dribbled past once, won just 25 per cent of his ground duels, and 50 per cent of his aerial duels, coming off the pitch as one of the worst during Leeds’ 3-0 defeat at the Amex Stadium.Aaronson’s future might not be over at Leeds UnitedDespite many fans feeling that Leeds need to find a replacement for the attacking midfielder this summer, it would appear that Farke doesn’t share that sentiment.Football Insider understands that Farke is set to hold talks with Aaronson, with the plan to extend his contract, having been impressed by his turnaround since returning to West Yorkshire.He is set to enter the final 12 months of his contract this summer, opening him up to potential moves away, especially if the Whites are to get a fee, but it would appear that the club already have plans.The decision is likely to split opinion at Elland Road.
But with two matches remaining, he might have the chance to persuade the majority. However, Farke should definitely consider dropping him now. 🚨 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Leeds United Insider Access Get the full story from Elland Road and Thorp Arch with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of West Yorkshire.