Brenden Aaronson scores first goal by an American for an American coach in Premier League history

Brenden Aaronson made Premier League history Sunday, becoming the first American player to score for an American coach in the league’s history.

The 21-year-old opened the scoring for Leeds after stealing the ball from Chelsea’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy before passing the ball into an empty net. 

‘The message was we are gonna press them, not stay back, we are gonna go after them and that sums up this goal,’ he said after the game to NBC Sports.

‘I think who wants it more?’ he said when asked by Tim Howard about the sort of pressing advice Jesse Marsch gives them. 

Brenden Aaronson celebrates his first goal for Leeds

‘Making this final step is something Jesse always talks about. I learned the skill with [RB] Salzburg and now the whole squad is learning it and it is paying off.

‘It’s a dream come true to begin with. I couldn’t ask to be a better club with better fans and a better group of guys, who were so welcoming.’

‘It goes to show people around the world that Americans can play football too – we are playing for Premier League teams, getting goals and assists and the coaching side too. 

Jesse Marsch congratulates Aaronson after his first Premier League goal

‘There’s more and more talent, it’s a great start and it’s going to get better.’

Aaronson’s goal – the first by an American for the club in the Premier League – was followed by a Rodrigo header just four minutes later from a Jack Harrison, before Rodrigo returned the favor for Harrison in the second half to make it 3-0.

Leeds have taken seven points from their first three games and moved up to second place after the win. 

Aaronson stole the ball off of Chelsea’s Edouard Mendy before tapping the ball in

Sunday was just Aaronson’s third Premier League appearance for Leeds, and he’ll hope to emulate some previously prolific Americans in the Prem.

Clint Dempsey finished his career with 57 goals in the Premier League, while Brian McBride had 36.

Christian Pulisic, who entered the game as a substitute for Chelsea, currently has 19. 

Marsch has gotten Leeds off to a great start this season

Jesse Marsch, meanwhile, joined the club last season as manager last season, becoming the third American to coach in the top flight.

Bob Bradley and David Wagner coached in the league before him.