Brenden Aaronson: The MLS’ Next Big Star?
In recent years, America has produced numerous emerging young soccer talents. From Christian Pulisic to Tyler Adams, the country’s status within the global soccer world is undoubtedly on the rise.
However, the promising youth products don’t stop with the Chelsea attacker or Rasenballsport Leipzig midfielder.
Having joined the Philadelphia academy in 2015, Brenden Aaronson has since become the next bright hope for American soccer. So, let’s take a look at the 19-year-old and consider how far he can go in the sport.
Comparisons to Some of Europe’s Most Highly-Rated Players
At the time of writing, Union currently sit fourth in the MLS’ Eastern Conference. Intriguingly, after six matches, 19-year-old Aaronson has been the team’s most influential player from a goalscoring standpoint. According to the official Philadelphia Union website, the midfielder has scored one goal thus far, in addition to providing two assists. Moreover, his contributions have also proved to be match-winning.
In Union’s 2-1 victory over Inter Miami CF, the 19-year-old got the assist for Kacper Przybylko’s all-important goal.
Following his impressive start to life in the MLS, a whole host of clubs from Europe’s top leagues have reportedly scouted the 19-year-old. According to Goal, the teenager has predominantly been linked with Bundesliga clubs, such as Borussia Monchengladbach and Hoffenheim, as well as Celtic, the reigning Scottish champions.
Interestingly, it’s a testament to Aaronson’s ability that he has been labeled as the U.S. Kai Havertz by Bild, a German publication. At present, the 19-year-old predominantly operates as an attacking midfielder. Should he live up to the Havertz comparisons, then he’ll need to add a little more versatility to his locker. That said, their playing styles are undoubtedly similar.
American Soccer is Looking Healthy
Many years ago, few would have predicted that US soccer would be the home to three of Europe’s most highly-rated players in Aaronson, Adams, and Pulisic. Although the 19-year-old Union midfielder isn’t yet on the same level as America’s other two talents, he’s unquestionably heading in the right direction.
While nothing is ever certain in soccer, if Adams’ and Pulisic’s careers show anything, it’s that the Bundesliga is a fruitful league for up-and-coming US players to develop their game.
From a spectator standpoint, the emergence of the US Havertz is a positive for soccer’s long-term future.
Importantly, since 2012, the MLS has recorded a 27 percent rise in interest, with seven percent of American’s now citing the sport as their favorite pastime, as per Forbes.
Aside from heightened interest, the rise in online betting opportunities also highlights the ever-growing popularity of the market. In particular states, sports offerings are arguably more extensive than ever before within contemporary society. For example, the number of sports betting brands in Colorado is exploding, with BonusFinder US listing a whole host of sports-based operators, such as BetRivers and DraftKings Sportsbook. At BetRivers, prospective bettors can explore a wide array of MLS-related markets, including three-way spread, both teams to score, first-half total goals, and much more.
Aaronson Has the Ability to Hit the Heights
At present, few can argue that the 19-year-old doesn’t have the football world at his feet. To be compared to Havertz and already be the subject of interest from famous Bundesliga clubs, it points towards Aaronson undoubtedly being US soccer’s next big star.
In turn, it’ll be fascinating to see how his career unfolds throughout the next decade.
Featured Image: SBI
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Categorized:Union WegENT Blog