Daniel Farke’s dream Ao Tanaka scenario plays out as Leeds star part of history
Ao Tanaka has been a key player for Leeds United since he signed in 2024.
The Japanese star became a regular in Daniel Farke‘s side in their Championship title-winning campaign, and that continued at the start of the Premier League season.
Tanaka started Leeds’ opening two matches, against Everton and Arsenal, but he has struggled for minutes since spending time on the sidelines with injury.
The form of Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach for Leeds in his absence, have kept him out of the starting line-up recently.
Ao Tanaka makes history away from Leeds United
Leeds star Tanaka struggled in Japan’s 2-2 with Paraguay on 10 October, as he featured for 80 minutes and picked up a booking.
However, he was benched for the 3-2 win over Brazil, in which Japan beat the South Americans for the first time in their history.
Tanaka did eventually come on, in the 75th minute, so he did play a part in the historic achievement, but his lack of action, will surely please Farke.
Farke should have fresh Tanaka back at Leeds
Farke would have liked to see Tanaka play as little as possible, so he came back to Elland Road fully fit.
The lack of minutes against the five-time World Cup winners will be the German’s dream scenario, as his star midfielder barely featured.
- Tanaka has featured five times for the Peacocks this season
- He has started just two matches, with three appearances from the bench
- He has played a total of 181 minutes
Therefore, he should return to LS11 raring to go, fully over the injury issues that have plagued him recently, and ready to win back his place in the side.
A motivated player, willing to battle for his starting spot, is exactly what Farke’s side needs at the moment, as they look towards top-flight survival.
Japan’s treatment of Tanaka in the international break has been the best outcome for all parties, the nation, the player and the Whites.
Farke can now bring the former Fortuna Dusseldorf ace back into the fold, without concern about his contributions away from Yorkshire, in the break.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Leeds United news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @motleedsnews