“His days are numbered” Leeds United midfielder reveal about to take sole Elland Road Exist decision threatening no turning back after facing HUGE starting XI intimidation from new summer transfer arrivals.
During last season, Glen Kamara and Ethan Ampadu typically controlled games in Leeds’ double-pivot midfield, but Ilia Gruev made a solid impression when given a chance following Pascal Struijk’s injury. In 2024, he’s been offered numerous opportunities to stake his claim for the role.
Given Gruev’s background as a Bulgarian international and the club’s £5 million investment to sign him from Werder Bremen, it’s no surprise he’s been afforded these chances. However, competition for places has intensified this season, especially with Ampadu no longer required in defense and Archie Gray being replaced.
**Gruev’s Role in Leeds’ Midfield**
When Ampadu moved to defense toward the end of last season, Gruev was able to step into a role that suited his abilities. As a defensive midfielder, Gruev is comfortable in possession, adept at receiving the ball from central defenders, and strong in tackles. Leeds saw more of his abilities during the latter part of last season, following a slow start. He has been a reliable defensive shield and has showcased good vision and passing, helping to keep the team’s play flowing. However, he’s more of a retention player rather than someone who breaks lines or speeds up attacks, and he’s not a regular goal scorer.
Since the start of the year, Gruev has arguably been one of Leeds’ most consistent players, starting every league game this season. However, he’s been deployed in a more advanced role than his natural position, playing beyond Ampadu, which limits his effectiveness.
While Gruev is too talented to be merely a substitute, he’s unlikely to start in Leeds’ strongest lineup when everyone is fit. The spine of the team, including Joe Rodon, Struijk, and Ampadu, is hard to alter unless injury strikes, and Gruev may ultimately serve best as Ampadu’s understudy.
This situation has become more pronounced following the recent signings of Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell. Tanaka, in particular, has a better understanding of the game’s tempo than Gruev, knowing when to speed up or slow down play. He also offers more in terms of goals and assists, providing Leeds with better balance in midfield than a double-pivot of Ampadu and Gruev.
While both Gruev and Ampadu are defensive midfielders by nature, Tanaka is more of a “No. 8” and is expected to complement either player well. With Ampadu now the club captain and a cornerstone of the team, Gruev is likely to remain as high-quality cover on the bench.
**Tanaka’s Impact on Leeds’ Midfield**
Though Tanaka may not start immediately, he’s been signed with the intention of playing a significant role in Leeds’ midfield. One of the key issues last season was the lack of goals from midfield, with only three goals between Ampadu, Gray, Kamara, and Gruev. This prompted Leeds to seek more attack-minded midfielders, leading to the signings of Tanaka and Rothwell.
Tanaka, who has experience pushing for promotion with Fortuna Düsseldorf, contributed 12 goal involvements in 36 appearances last season, often playing in a deeper role. This attacking output is something Leeds sorely need.
Rothwell also looks like a smart loan signing and could fit well alongside Ampadu, but Tanaka is seen as a level above, capable of thriving with a solid partner like Ampadu. Tanaka’s presence in the midfield will offer a different dynamic to Gruev, providing more creativity and attacking intent. His ability to score, create chances, and dictate the tempo makes him a better fit for Leeds’ long-term plans in midfield.
While Tanaka might reduce some of the defensive stability Ampadu and Gruev offer together, his offensive strengths will add much-needed variety. Over time, it’s likely that Tanaka will form a new-look partnership with Ampadu in Leeds’ midfield, bringing a balance of defensive resilience and attacking flair.
For the reported fee of around €4 million (£3.4 million), signing Tanaka could turn out to be one of Leeds’ best deals this summer, offering a peak-age player with the qualities needed to make a significant impact in the team.