Features

Premier League legend hints that Leeds United star may not be at the club for long – ‘Fantastic’ signing

by
Kwadwo Hemeng
May 27, 2025

Crystal Palace v Manchester City - Emirates FA Cup Final Ian Wright commentates for ITV during the Emirates FA Cup Final between Crystal Palace and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium in London, England, on May 17, 2025. London Greater London United Kingdom PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRA Copyright: xMIxNewsx originalFilename:fletcher-crystalp250517_np7Fg.jpg

Leeds United boss Daniel Farke was a huge reason behind the Championship win this season. Considering what he had faced over the last year, his achievement should be celebrated more.

Losing three of your best players before the start of the season is a huge blow. Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter combined to make over 40 goals in the league last year. Leeds also lost EFL Championship Young Player of the season Archie Gray.

Farke went through most of the summer with a limited amount of signings and only got a flurry of business done a week before the deadline. The German made an inspired decision that paid off this season, he pushed the board to sign Ao Tanaka from Fortuna Dusseldorf.

QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United players?

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Ian Wright praises Leeds United midfielder

Credit: Imago Images

The Japanese international arrived at Elland Road and fit into the team like a glove. He was a mainstay in the midfield through out the campaign and even scored some crucial goals in the run in. Tanaka’s performances did not go unnoticed as he was voted Leeds Players’ Player of the Year.

His quality this season did not go unnoticed. Outside the Championship, he also caught the eye of people in the Premier League. Arsenal Legend Ian Wright had a chance to speak about the 26-year old and had high praise for him. Wright also said that if Tanaka continues to excel, he might leave Elland Road soon:

“Right, talking about kids, perfect, who is the player to watch next season?” Wright was asked on the Kelly and Wrighty show.

“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,” Wright said.

This praise from Wright comes days after Declan Rice also revealed he is a big fan of the 26-year old.

Tanaka was the best signing this season

Getting a midfielder of this quality for just £3million in this era is unheard of. Credit to Daniel Farke for making the call. This season, Tanaka ranked top 10 in progressive passes and passes into the final third.