What Ian Wright has said about Ao Tanaka’s future at Leeds United – It may worry some.
Ian Wright has tipped Ao Tanaka to flourish in the Premier League with Leeds United after starring in their promotion push this season.
The Whites won the Championship title in style, picking up 100 points in the process, with Tanaka featuring in 43 games after his arrival from Düsseldorf.
2024-25 Championship table
Team
P
GD
Pts
1
Leeds United (C)
46
65
100
2
Burnley (P)
46
53
100
3
Sheffield United
46
27
90
4
Sunderland (P)
46
14
76
5
Coventry City
46
6
69
6
Bristol City
46
4
68
Given the relatively modest £2.9m fee he arrived for, few knew what to expect from the midfielder, but the Japanese international became a key figure under Daniel Farke.
Ao Tanaka backed to handle step up to the Premier League with Leeds United but exit fear raised
Following promotion, there has been plenty of debate among the fans about where Leeds need to strengthen, and even though a midfield addition or two is expected, it would be a surprise if Tanaka didn’t start the campaign in the XI.
Ao Tanaka scores for Leeds United vs Bristol City
And, speaking on the Kelly & Wrighty show, ex-England international Wright identified Tanaka as a player who can make an impact in the Premier League next season, and he even suggested he could be on the move to the top if he adapts as he expects.
“He’s not even a kid, but I’m going to go with Ao Tanaka at Leeds. Their number six, if he plays how he’s played this season for Leeds in the Premier League, he won’t be there long. I’m not trying to get him sold, he’s fantastic, he’s one to look out for, Ao Tanaka.”
Ao Tanaka will be key to Leeds United’s survival hopes
Tanaka has turned out to be an excellent bit of business for Leeds, so Farke and the recruitment team deserve plenty of credit for bringing him in.
Of course, he will be unknown in the Premier League, but Tanaka does look as though he has the ability to play at that level.
Daniel Farke v Plymouth Argyle
He has real composure on the ball, he is intelligent with his positional play, and he has the energy to get around the pitch.
Again, until that is proven in the top-flight, there may be some doubts, but many will agree with Wright’s view that the 26-year-old is certainly one to watch.
Peretz Burnley Leeds.
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Obviously, fans won’t be happy to hear the pundit suggest he could move on to better things quickly, but the only concern for all connected to the club right now is establishing the Whites back among the elite, and Tanaka will be relishing the chance to show what he can do on the big stage with Leeds.
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