‘Different’ – Aidan Morris Makes Middlesbrough Settling Admission After First Year at the Club
Aidan Morris has opened up about the challenges he faced after his move to Middlesbrough from Columbus, Ohio last summer, admitting that adjusting to life in England wasn’t as smooth as he initially hoped. Now a year on from his transatlantic switch, the young midfielder says he finally feels settled on Teesside — and credits his teammates and the club for helping him feel at home.
Morris, 22, joined Boro from MLS side Columbus Crew in a deal that signalled the club’s growing interest in young, talented players from outside the traditional recruitment markets. Though his on-field performances have shown steady growth over the season, the former U.S. youth international revealed that the transition off the pitch was more difficult than he anticipated.
“It was definitely different at first,” Morris said in a recent interview with club media. “Coming from the States to a new country, a new culture, a new style of football — it was all a bit overwhelming. I won’t lie, the first few months were tough. You miss home, you miss family, and you’re just trying to find your feet in a new environment.”
Morris’ candid admission sheds light on the often-overlooked human side of football transfers. While the focus tends to be on goals, assists and appearances, the emotional and mental adjustment required to succeed in a new setting can be just as important.
Despite those early challenges, Morris says he has grown immensely — both as a player and as a person — thanks to the support network around him at Middlesbrough.
“The club has been fantastic. From the staff to the players, everyone made an effort to help me settle in,” he continued. “I’ve built really good relationships in the dressing room, and that makes a big difference. You feel like you belong.”
As the season progressed, Morris’ confidence on the pitch grew. He became a more regular feature in Michael Carrick’s midfield options, offering energy, tenacity, and a growing understanding of the Championship’s physical demands. Off the field, he embraced the culture and lifestyle in the North East, even joking about his developing taste for British food.
“I didn’t know what to expect when I first got here,” he said with a laugh. “I didn’t even know what a parmo was — now I get the hype! The fans have been great too. They’ve shown me a lot of love and I really appreciate that.”
Looking ahead to his second season, Morris is optimistic and determined to build on the foundations of his first year. He sees himself as part of an ambitious project at Middlesbrough and is keen to make an even greater impact in the upcoming campaign.
“I feel like I’m in a good place now,” he said. “I’m comfortable, I’m happy, and I’m ready to keep pushing. I know there’s more to come from me and from this team.”
From Columbus to Teesside, it’s been a year of growth and adjustment for Aidan Morris — but now, he’s feeling right at home.
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