Leeds star Ao Tanaka looking concerned as Daniel Farke looks gutted.
(Credit: Imago)
Declan Carr
Mon 25 August 2025 13:10, UK
Leeds United’s misery from the 5-0 loss to Arsenal may be compounded after a possible new injury picked up by Ao Tanaka.
Tanaka emerged as a true superstar in Leeds’ 1-0 win over Everton, proving that he was Premier League quality.
He will be a key player if Leeds are to survive in the top flight this season, as proved by his Elland Road bow in the division.
However, he may be set for a spell on the sidelines, in a potential crushing blow for Daniel Farke‘s side.
Elland Road Leeds United
Tanaka is beloved by the Whites supporters. (Credit: Imago)
Daniel Farke shares Ao Tanaka injury update
Leeds already have Ethan Ampadu ruled out, so it would be a major blow if they were to lose the 26-year-old as well.
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However, they may have to prepare for that following what Farke said after the dismal loss to the Gunners, with the midfielder set for further assessment at some point this week.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, the German said: “After a tackle in the first half, he had problems with his MCL.
“He kept going, and I hope it’s not too bad. I hope the assessment is not too bad.
“There are a few concerns that it would be an injury, but it’s normally positive that he could play further on. But, we will have to assess him, and we will see how long it takes to get him fit and back to full fitness.”
What matches could Ao Tanaka miss for Leeds?
Given the fact that the Japanese international played on, despite the issue, he may not spend any time on the sidelines.
However, if it is an MCL tear, then he could miss out for a significant period, depending on the severity of the problem.
If it were a grade one or two tear, then he would face an absence of between two to four weeks, missing the Carabao Cup clash with Sheffield Wednesday on 25 August and league matches with Newcastle, Fulham and Wolves.
If it turns out to be a grade three, then he may also miss games against Bournemouth, Tottenham, Burnley, West Ham, Brighton and Nottingham Forest, as well as potential round three and four matches in the Carabao Cup.
He would be likely to return against Aston Villa on 22 November, if the worst-case scenario is confirmed by medical tests.
Leeds supporters everywhere will be praying that it is nothing and that the assessment reveals no issue, and Tanaka continues to play a starring role for the LS11 club.
He is far too important to the Peacocks; they need him on the pitch as much as possible in their survival bid.
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