Leeds United’s midfielder, Ao Tanaka, has been making waves both in the Championship and on the international stage since joining Elland Road. Tanaka, who was signed for just £3 million from Fortuna Dusseldorf, is already being hailed as one of Leeds’ best value signings. He has stepped up in the absence of injured players Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev and has been in fantastic form, earning the title of Leeds’ October player of the month.
In a recent game against Watford, Tanaka showcased his skills by winning back possession over 10 times, making at least five tackles, and completing over 50 passes in a single match, making him stand out as a top performer. His success on the field has not gone unnoticed, as he was also a key player in Japan’s 3-1 victory over China in the World Cup qualifiers.
Despite facing tough competition from other Japanese midfielders like Wataru Endo and Hidemasa Morita, Tanaka seized his opportunity to shine in the starting lineup against China. His passing accuracy was impeccable, completing 74 out of 76 attempted passes, including all six of his long balls finding their mark. This exceptional performance has earned him the title of having the highest passing accuracy (93%) of any midfielder in the AFC 2026 World Cup qualifiers, showcasing his talent and skill.
Tanaka is not the only Leeds player representing his country in international matches. Wilfried Gnonto, Mateo Joseph, Joe Rodon, Karl Darlow, Dan James, Charlie Crew, and Junior Firpo are all set to play for their respective national teams on Tuesday. This international exposure will not only benefit the players individually but also reflect positively on Leeds United as a club.
As Tanaka continues to impress both domestically and internationally, his performances are drawing attention and recognition from fans and pundits alike. With his remarkable passing accuracy and ability to control the midfield, Tanaka is proving to be a valuable asset for Leeds United and a standout player in the world of football. His journey from a relatively unknown signing to a key player on the field is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
