WATCH: Brenden Aaronson provides perfect response to USMNT snub with first-minute goal for Leeds

U.S. international Brenden Aaronson immediately responded to his Nations League snub with a first-minute goal against Swansea City in a 2-2 draw

Ahead of the CONCACAF Nations League, Mauricio Pochettino left Aaronson off of his 23-man squad in one of the more surprising omissions. Against Swansea City, Aaronson took advantage of some poor defending in the box, firing home from close range less than 40 seconds in to give Leeds the early advantage at Elland Road.

The finish is a crucial one for Aaronson, who had seen his goal-scoring dry up since the start of the new year. After scoring seven in the first four months of the season, the American's goal on Saturday is just his second since the start of 2025, which is likely part of the reason he was left at home during the CONCACAF Nations League.

Aaronson, who is now on nine goals for the season, told GOAL in the fall that he had set a personal target of 15 this season as he looks to prove he has added things to his game in the final third.

"I want to be outside of that box," he said. "I'm not just a runner. I'm not just a guy that's pressing all the time. I'll show that, of course, but I think I'm also more than that, you know? I think I'm a guy that brings other things to the pitch and, yeah, I just wish people could see that more."

Leeds find themselves in a fight for promotion heading into the home stretch of the Championship season. After leading the table for much of the season, Leeds are currently second following the result. Sheffield United, who lead the table, and No. 3 Burnley are the other two teams fighting for the top two automatic promotion spots, with the third team falling into a promotion playoff. Up next for Leeds is a match against 23rd-place Luton Town.