‘Don’t make me cry’ – Willy Gnonto’s reply to Ao Tanaka after Leeds United star’s emotional post

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It might not have been a clear surprise that Ao Tanaka started for Leeds United on Monday night in midfield, but the signings of Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach did threaten his place.

With £34.9m spent on two midfield recruits, the Japan star may have been concerned that his starting spot in Daniel Farke’s side was under threat. Especially, with Ethan Ampadu and Stach always starting.

Yet, Tanaka retained his place in a new-look midfield as Farke reverted to a more defensive 4-3-3 over last season’s 4-2-3-1. Another midfielder alongside Ampadu, rather than Brenden Aaronson in the 10 role.

Tanaka was excellent, lasting almost the entire match before being replaced by Longstaff in injury time. An even more impressive display, considering it was Tanaka’s first-ever game in the Premier League.

• READ MORE: Exclusive update as Leeds complete their ninth summer signing

Ao Tanaka’s emotional post on Instagram to Leeds supporters

Prior to his Premier League bow, Tanaka’s highest level with a club was the Championship. Before Leeds, Tanaka had only played in Germany’s second tier and the Japanese J-League, far below English football.

A dream of Tanaka’s was to play in the Premier League. Tanaka’s agent previously said he is ready-made for the Premier League, and that was clear against Everton. He posted a message to fans on Instagram.

“This is why I came to Europe. After 4 years in Europe, I finally made it to the Premier League. Honestly, there are things I can’t do and challenges, but I’m happy to feel it. I have a lot to do, but I’ll try harder.”

Willy Gnonto and Pascal Struijk react to Ao Tanaka’s Instagram

Clearly, Tanaka is a well-liked member of the Leeds squad, even if he has not perfected the English language yet. The midfielder’s performances, his big smile, and his humble personality are endearing.

Gnonto and Tanaka are known to have a close relationship, and the Italian replied on the Japan star’s post, replying with “don’t make me cry” as Tanaka followed Gnonto in making a Premier League debut.

Pascal Struijk also replied a series of emojis, with Tanaka likely now to retain his place when Leeds go to Arsenal on Saturday evening. An incredibly tricky game, one of the hardest of the entire calendar.