Leeds United supporters have been praising Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka for the past year, and the larger football community has recently taken notice following his outstanding debut in the Premier League, a determined 1-0 win against Everton.
Tanaka was instrumental in Leeds’ impressive 100-point promotion season last year, and he transitioned effortlessly into this top-tier European league. Daniel Farke brought him on board for a mere £3 million from German second division club Fortuna Dusseldorf last summer.
Here’s a look at how the media reacted to Tanaka’s man-of-the-match performance against Everton.
Beren Cross
“Tanaka’s been remarkable tonight,” noted The Athletic’s chief Leeds United writer on X.
“He remains the most dynamic player on the field, having played all 91 minutes. His ability to break up play and intercept errors, while assisting teammates, was evident.”
“Again, Tanaka showcased his relentless energy, ball recoveries, and interceptions,” Cross reiterated in his detailed report.
“He demonstrated why Farke chose him over Sean Longstaff, who may be hoping for an opportunity in a tougher challenge against Arsenal on Saturday.”
The Athletic
In The Athletic’s live blog of the match, writer Nancy Froston singled out Tanaka as the standout performer:
“It was a straightforward choice—Ao Tanaka outpaced everyone until he was subbed off due to what appeared to be cramp.
“Unsurprisingly, after such a performance, our informal vote for man of the match leans heavily toward the Japan international.
“We can anticipate many more impressive displays from the central midfielder this season.”
Daily Mail
“‘A vital player for us is my captain,’ Farke remarked about Ethan Ampadu, who controlled the game from midfield,” reported Aadam Patel in the Mail.
“Teaming up with Stach and Ao Tanaka, the Leeds midfield trio proved too strong for Everton.
“The fact that Sean Longstaff was only called upon during injury time highlights their energy and persistence, and had it not been for Ampadu sustaining a concerning knock in the second half, he would have played the entire match.
“Regarding Tanaka, this performance signals his readiness for the Premier League. Without Abdoulaye Doucoure, Everton lacked any substantial presence off the ball and were overwhelmed by Leeds.”
The Guardian
“The game’s standout performer and a player who will be crucial to Leeds’ survival ambitions,” observed Aaron Bower from Elland Road.
The Yorkshire Evening Post
YEP writer Lee Sobot awarded the Japan international an 8/10 rating:
“It took him a bit of time to find his rhythm but he became more influential as the match progressed, with his tenacity and drive in the closing stages a pleasure to witness.
“The crowd adores him. While his shooting was slightly off-target, it’s clear he has potential in that area.”
Leeds Live
Isaac Johnson echoed Sobot’s evaluation:
“He moved the ball well and demonstrated good reading of the game, both on and off the ball.
“He needs to be mindful of his tackling when tracking back. In the second half, he pushed forward more effectively and contributed to the attack whenever possible.”
Henry Winter
“Leeds deserved to emerge victorious, despite any controversy over the penalty,” posted Winter on X.
“They showed more ambition, intensity, and width than Everton (who did improve in the second half).
“Tanaka, Ampadu, and Stach were all impressive. A solid performance from the keeper. Nmecha’s composed penalty kick. The atmosphere at Elland Road played a significant part.”
Adam Crafton
Tanaka was exceptional for Leeds.
— Adam Crafton (@AdamCrafton_) August 18, 2025
Image Source: Ao Tanaka @ Instagram
