Leeds United: Ao Tanaka could be handed Japan reprieve after Keisuke Honda's 'controversial' plea

Ao Tanaka is feeling like he let Japan down after the Leeds United star made a mistake to hand Brazil a 2-1 win.

It was a moment that left Tanaka inconsolable on the field following the full-time whistle.

While many will have pointed blame to the 27-year-old, the Leeds man did find himself allies in Japanese football.

Legendary figure Keisuke Honda defended Tanaka following the outcome of the match.

Recovering from a moment such as that will undoubtedly be tough, especially when it happens for your nation.

However, that could be made easier following the latest actions of Honda on social media.

What Keisuke Honda has now said could change everything for Ao Tanaka

Tanaka could bounce back from his Japan heartbreak quicker if Honda gets wish.

Following Japan's exit and speculation over an extension for their manager, Honda has taken to social media, in a move that could affect Tanaka.

He stated via his X account: "I know this might be controversial, but let me say it anyway. I saw the news that they’re offering Coach Hajime Moriyasu a one-year contract extension, but if it’s just a stop-gap offer because they can’t find any other candidates for the next coach, then why not try me for a year?

"If we lose the Asian Cup, you can fire me without any questions asked. I’m ready to take on that challenge."

If Honda does get considered for the role, Tanaka would find himself an ally, and one that is highly respected throughout Japanese football.

Honda's defence of Tanaka included the fact that he admitted he had nothing but praise for him.

That type of confidence from a manager, could allow him to bounce back on the international stage, and for Leeds, there could be a knock on bonus as well.

How has Tanaka been treated by Hajime Moriyasu?

When it comes to the current Japan manager, Moriyasu, Tanaka has had a similar time as he has had at Leeds last season - sporadic.

At the 2026 World Cup, the Leeds ace only started two out of the four games, and one of those was Japan's sole win.

But, in the match against Brazil he was selected to be on the bench, coming on with just 12 minutes to go.

In the build-up to the World Cup, Tanaka also started just four of Japan's last seven matches.

So perhaps a regime change for the Samurai Blue could see him get an increased role moving forward.

And, if that is the case, Leeds would also benefit as he would certainly get a much-needed boost in confidence.