Tanaka voted Hisense Player of the Match against Everton | OneFootball

In what was a composed yet electric return to the Premier League, Leeds United launched their campaign with a 1–0 victory over Everton at Elland Road - and it was Japan midfielder Ao Tanaka who stole the headlines.

A vote across Leeds United's digital channels saw 41% of fans crown Tanaka as the Hisense Player of the Match, underlining just how impactful his first top‑flight appearance in Europe proved to be.

DOMINANT DISPLAY

Tanaka played 94 minutes of the win at Elland Road and was a constant driving force in midfield, completing 91% of his 46 attempted passes, anchoring Leeds’ possession-oriented style.

The Japanese international, covering 10.8km, created two chances, attempted two shots and completed both of his long-ball attempts, impressing with both vision and accuracy.

His tireless efforts not only maintained Leeds’ rhythm but also helped stifle Everton’s attempts to build momentum.

CRUCIAL MOMENTS

Leeds were the better side throughout, applying pressure and forcing mistakes. In the closing stages, Tanaka’s high press earned dividends - a turnover inside Everton’s half led to James Tarkowski conceding a penalty, which Lukas Nmecha calmly converted in the 84th minute to settle the game

FARKE APPLAUDS

Speaking after the final whistle, manager Daniel Farke praised Tanaka’s emotional intensity and technical quality - a combination that sets Elland Road alight.

“I like that he is such an emotional player" said Farke. "He can also set the stadium on fire. But it's also important that we have to play pragmatically, because it makes no sense to set the stadium on fire, and then you concede a late equaliser. So it's important to bring it over the line, and this is what we spoke about.”

THE STATS BEHIND THE PERFORMANCE