Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka and Daniel Farke in circular inset
Credit: Imago
Aheed Abrar
Sat 15 November 2025 9:10, UK
Ao Tanaka has a point to prove at Leeds United after falling down the pecking order under Daniel Farke in the Premier League.
The Japan international was an unused sub as Sean Dyche got the better of Farke at the City Ground on 9 November, with Nottingham Forest beating the Whites 3-1 in the league.
Tanaka seems frustrated with his situation at Elland Road, having started just four of the 11 games in the English top flight for the West Yorkshire outfit after his heroic displays during their Championship-winning campaign.
The 27-year-old has continued to be a key player for Japan, though, and may have just sent a message to the German manager about his lack of game time in LS11.
Ao Tanaka playing for Leeds
Credit: Imago
Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka stars in Japan win vs Ghana
Tanaka’s Japan kept Antoine Semenyo, who’s flying high with Bournemouth, quiet in the 2-0 win over Ghana.
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The midfielder played 68 minutes in the friendly at the Toyota Stadium on 14 November, as Takumi Minamino and Titsu Doan scored for the hosts.
Tanaka had a 96 per cent pass accuracy against the Black Stars, completing all his passes in Japan’s half, as per Sofascore, showcasing composure in possession.
Playing in a deeper role for the Samurai Blue, the former Fortuna Dusseldorf ace had 60 touches, with just one unsuccessful.
The midfielder was immense for Hajime Moriyasu’s team defensively, winning both of his tackles, making one interception, two clearances and two recoveries.
Tanaka will surely hope Farke took notice, winning two of his three ground duels and one of his two aerial duels against Ghana.
Ao Tanaka forced to apologise after Japan victory
Tanaka’s performances in the Premier League have been underwhelming, and he may need to bring more consistency to his game to regain a starting spot at Elland Road.
Leeds have several players out on international duty and will hope none pick up injuries, although the Japanese star was involved in a serious incident at the Toyota Stadium.
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Minutes played
Premier League 8 0 0 323
Tanaka’s Premier League record this season
The midfielder’s challenge on Abu Francis saw the Ghana ace stretchered off in the 56th minute of the friendly fixture, and in the post-match press conference, the Whites’ star said: “I’m sorry about today.”
It remains to be seen what mental state Tanaka returns in at Elland Road after the international break, with Farke facing a challenging run of games during the festive period.
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