Ao Tanaka, the Japanese midfielder who has been a revelation at Leeds United, has opened up about his Premier League ambitions and what he needs to improve on. Tanaka, who signed for Leeds from Fortuna Dusseldorf in the summer, has been a key player for the Whites, scoring crucial goals and providing energy and tenacity in midfield.
Speaking to the media in Japan, Tanaka expressed his delight at how his England story has started, but also acknowledged that there are still areas where he needs to improve. “I am very happy to be well received in the UK, but I feel that I still have a lot to improve,” he said. “I still have to avoid mistakes as much as possible when playing three games a week.”
Tanaka also spoke about what he has learned under Leeds manager Daniel Farke, particularly about the importance of winning duels and keeping possession. “In a bad situation, the key is not to lose the ball in the first half, so that there will be more opportunities in the second half,” he explained. “Although I didn’t pay much attention to scramble before, I now feel the importance.”
Farke has been impressed with Tanaka’s performances, describing him as “outstanding” for the team. “When you have a player like Tanaka, after the injury to Ethan Ampadu, his first season in English football… he has been outstanding for us,” Farke said.
Tanaka’s contract at Leeds expires in 2028, but the club may consider rewarding him with improved terms given his impact on and off the pitch. Despite struggling with injuries to key players, including Ethan Ampadu, Leeds have been performing well in the Championship, and Tanaka’s contributions have been a key factor in their success.
As Tanaka prepares to represent Japan in the Asian World Cup qualifiers, he will be looking to continue his good form and help his country qualify for the World Cup. With his Premier League ambitions still burning bright, Tanaka will be hoping to make a big impact in the top flight next season.
In conclusion, Ao Tanaka’s impressive performances for Leeds United have caught the attention of fans and pundits alike. With his energy, tenacity, and goal-scoring ability, Tanaka has been a revelation in the Championship. As he looks to continue his good form and help Japan qualify for the World Cup, Tanaka’s Premier League ambitions remain a key motivator for him. With Leeds pushing for promotion, Tanaka will be hoping to make a big impact in the top flight next season.
Tanaka’s comments about needing to improve and avoid mistakes are a testament to his humility and dedication to his craft. His willingness to learn and adapt to the demands of English football has been impressive, and his performances on the pitch have been a reflection of his hard work and commitment.
As the season enters its final stretch, Tanaka will be looking to continue his good form and help Leeds secure promotion to the Premier League. With his Premier League ambitions still burning bright, Tanaka will be hoping to make a big impact in the top flight next season.
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