Leeds United, featuring Japanese international midfielder Tanaka Aoi (27), has secured its place in the Premier League for the 2025-26 season following a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur. The result ensures the Yorkshire club will remain in England’s top flight, avoiding relegation in their second season back in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Sporting CP, which includes fellow Japan national team midfielder Morita Hidemasa, has climbed into the Champions League qualification zone in the Portuguese Liga. The Lisbon side’s recent strong run of form has propelled them up the table, putting them in contention for European football’s elite competition next season.
Tanaka has made 28 appearances across all competitions for Leeds this campaign, contributing one goal and two assists. His performances in the engine room have been praised by manager Daniel Farke, who noted that the midfielder needed time to adapt but has now shown consistent quality.
Morita, 29, has been a key figure for Sporting CP this season, making 32 appearances and scoring three goals while providing four assists. The Portuguese club’s rise to third place in the league standings has put them firmly in the mix for a Champions League berth, depending on the final rounds of fixtures.
Both players are expected to feature in Japan’s squad for the upcoming international break, as the Samurai Blue continue preparations for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
