Ranking the Top 75 MLS Players of 2024: 57. Aaron Long

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Aaron Long's backline led LAFC to a first place finish in the 2024 Western Conference. The 43 goals conceded number was third-best in the conference. Long was a consistent member of the matchday squad, making 33 appearances on the season. The MLS veteran completed his eighth campaign and second with the Black & Gold. Jesus Murillo departed the club for FC Juarez, so Long will be back as the leader in the back. He very well may even earn the captain's armband in 2025. Long signed a contract extension that keeps him tied to LAFC through 2027. The steady presence will be welcome.

The center back scored five goals for the New York Red Bulls back in 2022, but obviously making highlights isn't exactly a defender's forte. Long scored one goal on the season, an incredible curling striker's finish that was a dagger through the hearts of Sporting Kansas City. Long also led LAFC to the US Open Cup title. He assisted a goal against the Las Vegas Lights during the journey. LAFC defeated SKC in the final in 3-1 extra time fashion.

Long is a household name for MLS fans and fans of American soccer in general at this point. He is a cautios defender that prioritizes keeping attackers in front of him. Above all else, Long is an absolute beast in the air. It would be difficult to find a center back in the league that wins aerial duels at the clip he does. He wins over 76% of his aerial duels, a truly ridiculous percentage. His airspace is a no-fly zone in the box. He is also an accurate passer at just under 90% completion. Long's splitting balls between the lines may not have been as effective recently as his RBNY days, though it's not always his job to do so. Long comes in at No. 57.

57) AARON LONG | DEF, LAFC | PER 90 STATS (PERCENTILE)

76.3% AERIAL DUELS WON (98%)

0.16 POSSESSION WINS IN FINAL THIRD PER 90 (85%)

63.1% DUELS WON (81%)

89.6% PASS ACCURACY (80%)