Leeds United’s return to the Premier League marks a significant milestone in the club’s history, a long-awaited and hard-earned achievement that has been the result of years of preparation, hard work, and dedication. For the club’s supporters, players, and coaching staff, this moment represents not only the culmination of a successful season but also the renewal of their place among England’s elite football clubs. After spending a prolonged period outside the Premier League, Leeds United earned their promotion to the English top-flight with an emphatic 6-0 victory over Stoke City on Easter Monday. This stunning result was the final step in securing their return, and it sent a clear message that Leeds is ready to compete with the best. This victory, along with other standout performances during the season, helped Leeds clinch their spot at the top of the Championship table, solidifying their return to the Premier League after an absence of over 16 years.
As the club now looks forward to their Premier League journey, their immediate focus is on lifting the Championship title. The squad currently sits at the top of the table, following a dominant 4-0 win over Bristol City, demonstrating that they have the quality and consistency to finish the season as champions. This success has not only brought joy to Leeds’ supporters but also placed many of their players under the spotlight for their stellar performances throughout the campaign. For many of these players, their contributions have been crucial in helping Leeds secure their return to the top-flight, and they have received well-deserved recognition for their efforts.
Among the players who have stood out this season, one in particular has captured the attention of fans, pundits, and former players alike: Ao Tanaka. The Japanese international has been nothing short of exceptional in the Championship, and his performances have been a key factor in Leeds’ success. As a central midfielder, Tanaka has showcased an impressive array of qualities that have made him one of the best in his position this season. His ability to break up opposition attacks, his tactical intelligence, and his composure on the ball have made him an invaluable asset to the team. Tanaka’s work rate and his ability to dictate the tempo of matches have made him a standout performer in the Championship, and it is clear that his presence in the midfield has been vital to Leeds’ promotion.
However, despite his brilliant performances, Tanaka was notably absent from the list of winners at the EFL Awards, where the Championship Player of the Year award was handed to Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer instead. This decision sparked outrage, particularly from former Leeds United striker Ross McCormack, who expressed his anger and frustration with the award’s outcome. McCormack, who made a name for himself at Leeds with his goal-scoring exploits during his time at the club, took to social media to voice his displeasure, insisting that Tanaka should have been crowned Championship Player of the Year. In an Instagram post on April 29, McCormack shared an image of a Tanaka shirt with the caption: “Rolls Royce this guy. Champ player of the year for me!” McCormack’s post was met with widespread support from Leeds fans, who also felt that Tanaka had been unfairly overlooked for the prestigious individual award.
Despite the fact that Tanaka did not win the Player of the Year award, the midfielder was included in the Championship Team of the Season, alongside his teammates Jayden Bogle and Dan James. While this recognition was certainly deserved, it did little to quell the frustration of those who believed Tanaka was the clear standout player in the league this season. His consistent performances and his ability to dictate matches have been pivotal in Leeds’ promotion, and many felt that he had earned the accolade of Player of the Year. Tanaka’s omission from this award speaks to the subjective nature of such honors, but it also highlights just how impactful he has been for Leeds United this season.
For those who have followed Leeds United closely, there is no question that Tanaka has been one of the most influential players in the Championship this season. As the team’s midfield general, he has provided a calming presence in the center of the park, always looking to make the right pass or defensive intervention. Whether it’s making a crucial interception, controlling possession, or threading a perfect through-ball to a teammate, Tanaka has been at the heart of everything positive for Leeds this season. His ability to influence games, dictate play, and protect the defense has made him an indispensable part of the squad, and it is no surprise that Leeds’ return to the Premier League is largely thanks to his performances.
As Leeds United now turns their attention to life in the Premier League, the challenge ahead will be significant. The Premier League is one of the most competitive leagues in world football, and for newly-promoted sides, the task of staying up is always daunting. In recent years, all three promoted teams from the Championship have been relegated back to the second tier, a trend that Leeds will be eager to break. The club has all the potential in the world to survive in the Premier League, but it will require the right balance of squad depth, tactical acumen, and individual brilliance to succeed at the highest level. Leeds will need to ensure they build a team capable of competing with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, and the other top clubs.
One player who will be absolutely crucial to Leeds’ Premier League survival is Ao Tanaka. While he has proven himself to be a dominant force in the Championship, his skills and qualities will be tested even further in the top-flight. The Premier League is notoriously demanding, with its increased intensity, speed, and tactical complexity. To stay up, Leeds will need players who can make an impact at the highest level, and Tanaka undoubtedly has the talent to do just that. His ability to control the tempo of matches will be vital, especially against stronger teams. Tanaka’s vision, passing range, and work ethic will be invaluable in helping Leeds compete in the midfield battle, and he will be the player who links the defense and attack.
In addition to his technical abilities, Tanaka’s mentality and leadership qualities will also be crucial as Leeds navigate the challenges of the Premier League. He is a player who has experience playing at a high level, having represented Japan in international competitions, and his calm demeanor on the ball will be vital in helping the team stay composed under pressure. Against the stronger sides in the Premier League, Leeds will need to rely on Tanaka to lead by example and dictate play in the middle of the park.
Looking ahead to the summer, Leeds United will also need to strengthen their squad if they are to avoid relegation. The club is likely to make further additions, particularly in areas such as attack and defense, to ensure they have the depth and quality needed to survive in the Premier League. Manager Daniel Farke will have his work cut out in building a squad that complements Tanaka’s style of play and enhances the team’s overall balance. While Leeds have some talented players already, it will be crucial to make the right signings and integrate them into the squad ahead of the new season.
Tanaka’s role will be to anchor the midfield and help protect the defense, but he will also need to contribute to the attack when possible. The likes of Dan James, who has been excellent this season, and Jayden Bogle will need to step up their performances in the Premier League, while experienced players like Liam Cooper and Illan Meslier will have to provide leadership and stability at the back. Together, with Tanaka at the heart of the team, Leeds United can build a squad capable of staying in the Premier League and competing for a place in the top half of the table.
The 2025-2026 Premier League season will undoubtedly be a challenging one for Leeds United, but the club’s promotion and the quality of players such as Tanaka offer a sense of optimism and excitement. If the team can maintain their current momentum and strengthen in the summer, Leeds United will have a real chance to secure their Premier League status and establish themselves as a competitive force in the top flight once again. With Tanaka leading the charge in midfield, Leeds have a foundation to build on, and the upcoming season promises to be one of great significance in the club’s history.