With the transfer of Philadelphia Union homegrown Brenden Aaronson now official, pundits will wonder what this means for the future of Major League Soccer homegrowns and American Soccer. That was far from Aaronson’s mind on Friday as he spoke to media about the move. The kid that grew up watching Union games before joining the academy has his eyes set on ending this stage of his career by lifting the club’s first trophy.
“It was my goal to finish out the season with the Union because of the amazing season we’ve had so far and what this club has done for me throughout the years,” Aaronson said. “I am really excited to end the season with the Union and we have big aspirations for ourselves.
“We’re looking to win two trophies this year and we’re in the running for two so we will do whatever we can to win them.”
Head Coach Jim Curtin echoed that sentiment. The Union currently sit three points behind Toronto FC in both the Eastern Conference standings and the Supporters’ Shield race. Curtin pointed out how impressed he has been with his midfielder’s ability to handle things both on and off the pitch despite countless distractions.
With transfer rumors swirling since the MLS is Back Tournament in Orlando, Aaronson kept his head down and racked up the statistics with four goals and five assists in 2020.
“A 19-year-old with his ability to focus and not get distracted when so many things are happening all around him has been really impressive,” Curtin said. “Brenden wants to lift a trophy here and I think that our fans recognize that we’ve had a special season and they’ve loved watching Brenden grow and watching him get better. And its always difficult when things come to an end, but we’re going to push like heck that last game be on December 12 in MLS Cup and go out on top.
“That is what Brenden wants and what the city deserves and he’s going to give everything in his final games here.”
