Ao Tanaka has a glaring flaw, Leeds will be held back by these woeful stats

Analysis of Tanaka's defensive strengths (3rd in PL for possession won) but weakness in progressive passing limits Leeds' attacking ambitions.

Ao Tanaka has become an important player for Leeds United under Daniel Farke, particularly after the manager adjusted the team's setup to accommodate him in midfield. The Japanese midfielder excels defensively, ranking third in the Premier League among midfielders for possession won per 90 (10.36) and third for defensive duels won per 90 (4.77), making him invaluable for breaking up opposition attacks.

However, Tanaka's all-round game has a significant limitation. While his defensive work is excellent, he struggles in the attacking phase. He ranks 52nd among Premier League midfielders for forward passes (6.96 per 90) and 49th for passes into the final third (4.23 per 90), showing limited ability to help his team progress the ball forward.

For a team fighting relegation, a solid defensive midfielder is crucial. But with Leeds and their fanbase now eyeing a different season and even dreaming of European qualification, Farke will need more progressive play from midfield. A midfielder who cannot routinely move the ball forward could become a limiting factor in those ambitions.