On the 18th, Leeds, who was promoted for the first time in the opening round of the English Premier League, defeated Everton 1-0. Tanaka Aoi (26), who is now in his second season in Leeds and making his first Premiere appearance, was active both offensively and defensively, contributing to the launch of the win. He took the top league pitch in his fifth season in Europe.

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Tanaka started from the front rather than the bottom of the midfield, which was his main field last season. He thrusts through the gaps between the defensive nets and draws out passes one after another, showing sharp interceptions. In the 35th minute of the second half, he hit a ball that had bounced in front of the goal with his right foot. He missed the ball over the target and held his head, but it was the play that brought him to victory immediately afterwards. The consecutive presses on the defender and goalkeeper created an opportunity to seize the ball, and brought in a penalty kick that led to the winning goal. Coach Falke said, “It was a close match, but we deserved a victory.”

Just like last season when the team won the second division, the team focused on keeping the ball and pushed it in. This style makes Tanaka, the skilled technician, lives. Even within the strength of the Premier, the key to continuing to get the role is whether they can support the team's fighting style.

It took five seasons to reach the European Top League stage. He led Leeds to a second division championship last season, and wrote about his thoughts on Instagram.

“It took too long to get to this point, so I think it was a detour. There were times when I was about to give up, but I think I was able to get to this point because I trusted myself at any time and continued to struggle with what I have now. I just understand it more than anyone else, but I haven't achieved anything yet, and I just have the right to get to the starting line. I think I'll face another different challenge or barrier from now on, but I'll continue to feel happy even those. I'll try to face myself more than ever before and make the impossible within myself possible.”

Tanaka is more aware than anyone that this is just a passing point. According to the league, the second division winner's club won the first Premiere match the following season since 2007-2008. Three clubs, which have just been promoted, have been relegated to the past two seasons, but they have got off to a good start.