Middlesbrough, after a disappointing end to their previous season, is embarking on a new Championship campaign with renewed aspirations. They have strategically bolstered their squad with fresh talent from the MLS, notably two USMNT players who are set to make their mark. However, the team also faces an early challenge with one of their key USMNT midfielders currently out of action due to an injury.
Middlesbrough Kicks Off Season with New USMNT Talent, Aidan Morris Sidelined
This Saturday, August 15, 2026, marks the start of Middlesbrough's Championship journey as they face Lincoln City. The team, boasting three players from the United States Men's National Team (USMNT), is looking to make a strong impression following their playoff final defeat last season.
Among the fresh faces joining Middlesbrough are USMNT midfielders Sebastian Berhalter and Max Arfsten, who recently transitioned from the MLS. Both players had their inaugural appearance for Boro in the Carabao Cup fixture against Wrexham, a team famously co-owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. For the crucial Championship opener against Lincoln City, Berhalter has earned a spot in the starting eleven, showcasing his immediate impact. Arfsten, while not starting, is included in the matchday squad and will be available from the bench, ready to contribute when called upon.
However, the team faces an early setback with fellow USMNT player Aidan Morris currently out of contention due to an injury. Morris, who joined Middlesbrough in 2024 from Columbus Crew, was a standout performer in the 2025/26 season. Despite his previous contributions, he has yet to feature this term. Manager Kim Hellberg confirmed before the Wrexham match that Morris was dealing with a short-term issue, expressing optimism for his return to training the following week, though ruling him out of that particular game.
Ahead of the Lincoln City match, Hellberg provided an updated assessment on Morris's condition. He indicated that Morris's participation this weekend remained uncertain, describing it as a "50-50 call." The manager suggested that if Morris couldn't play against Lincoln, he would likely be ready for the subsequent fixture. Following the Lincoln City game, Middlesbrough is scheduled to play Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, August 22.
The integration of new talent and the challenge of managing player injuries will undoubtedly shape Middlesbrough's performance in the early stages of their Championship campaign. The team's ability to adapt and overcome these hurdles will be crucial in their pursuit of promotion to the Premier League.
