Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sun 8 March 2026 10:50, UK

Ao Tanaka could be fighting for his future at Elland Road ahead of Leeds United’s FA Cup tie against Norwich City on Sunday.

The Japanese midfielder was a key player for the Whites last season as they secured promotion to the Premier League. However, in this campaign, that importance had significantly dwindled.

Daniel Farke has ultimately pushed the 27-year-old to the side, as he looks to keep the Peacocks in the top flight for another season.

The FA Cup offers a chance for Tanaka to show that he still has plenty to give Leeds, and this may be the final opportunity he gets.

Leeds’ game against Norwich is primed for some of those fringe players to get a run out, and Tanaka should be one of them.

Why Ao Tanaka is fighting for his Leeds future vs Norwich

If Tanaka does not impress Farke against Norwich, then there is a chance that it is the final time he is seen playing for Leeds.

The Japanese international has seemingly lost the trust of his manager, with zero minutes over the last six Premier League matches.

If Leeds continue to be dragged back down to the relegation dogfight, then the German is more likely to play those he trusts in those upcoming crucial matches.

So, if Tanaka is selected to play in the FA Cup, it represents a potential final swansong for him in LS11.

Tanaka has been linked with a move away from Leeds in the summer, and as it stands with his status under Farke, that is not a surprise.

There is certainly pressure on the Leeds midfielder now to work for more game time, especially seeing as it is a World Cup year, and Japan are qualified.

Why Tanaka will need to impress from afar vs Norwich

With Farke suspended on the touchline against Norwich, watching his players from up in the stands will provide a unique opportunity for the manager.

The German will be able to get a better view of the action, and perhaps the Japanese midfielder can prove himself without the pressure of his head coach being up close and personal.

The Whites have a real opportunity to go on a strong cup run, and if Farke can manage to keep them afloat in the relegation battle and go further in the FA Cup, it would certainly be a season to remember.

Tanaka has played a key role up to this point, starting in the previous two FA Cup matches. Now, this fixture has even more importance for him.