Leeds United have confirmed that Ao Tanaka will stay with the team this summer, despite playing less under coach Daniel Farke. Pete O’Rourke mentioned on the Transfer Insider podcast that the club is not planning to let the 27-year-old Japanese international leave, even as his playing time in the Premier League has declined this year. Last season, Tanaka scored five goals and provided two assists in 43 Championship matches, playing a key role in Leeds’ promotion to the top division.
Ao Tanaka Staying Put: Leeds United Stand Firm Over Japan Midfielder’s Future
However, Farke’s adoption of a 3-4-2-1 formation has limited Tanaka’s opportunities, as Stach, Ampadu, and Gruev are now the preferred midfielders. Since January, Tanaka has spent only 63 minutes in league play from the bench and has not appeared in any of Leeds’ last six Premier League games.
Despite this situation, O’Rourke emphasized that the club views Tanaka as a valuable squad member with a future at Elland Road. With 22 appearances this season and three goals, Tanaka has contributed but there are ongoing discussions about his potential and performance.
“It will be interesting. I believe he still has a role at Leeds. He has been on the bench for the last six Premier League games, and the current starting eleven features Stach, Ampadu, and Gruev in midfield.”
“He has struggled for game time lately but still has 22 appearances and three goals this season. Leeds is not looking to push him out right now; he remains an important squad player, and I expect he will continue in this role until the end of the season.”
Does Farke Genuinely Need Tanaka, Or Is This A Situation That Simply Cannot Continue?