Ao Tanaka

Ao Tanaka operates as a central midfielder for Leeds United, showcasing a balanced blend of defensive and offensive contributions. Standing at 180 cm and weighing 69 kg, he maintains a solid physical presence on the pitch, utilizing his right foot to effectively control the ball. His current playing style reflects a versatile midfielder adept at both breaking up opposition plays and facilitating attacking movements. With 12 tackles, 22 interceptions, and 16 key passes in the current season, he demonstrates a strong defensive work rate coupled with the ability to create opportunities for his teammates. In the 2025/2026 season, Tanaka has made 35 appearances, scoring four goals and achieving an average rating of 6.85. This indicates his involvement in the game, contributing not just defensively but also finding the net when needed. His ability to read the game allows him to position himself well, making important interceptions that help maintain the team’s structure and transition play effectively. Having joined Leeds United from Fortuna Düsseldorf in 2024 for €4.0M, Tanaka's contract runs until June 2028, suggesting that the club sees him as a key component of their midfield for the foreseeable future. His current form and role highlight his importance in both defensive duties and supporting the attack, making him a valuable asset for the team.