Tanaka opens emotive 'massive' debate on opponent as dream continues

Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka recently opened a passionate debate with his choice of words to describe Bournemouth - calling the Championship side a "massive" opponent. Tanaka's use of the emotive term highlights the differing perspectives fans hold on what constitutes a "massive" club. For some, it may involve a club's global reputation or stadium size, but for Tanaka, it's about Bournemouth's performance in the Premier League over the past three years, their recent top-six finish, and their back-to-back 3-0 victories over top-tier opponents like AC Milan, Manchester United, and Aston Villa.

The Japan international expressed his excitement about facing Bournemouth, acknowledging the team's quality players, tactics, and desire to win. Tanaka also highlighted Leeds United's own merits as a massive club, pointing to their historic success, current form, and large fanbase. Despite Leeds' seventh-place position after eight games, Tanaka remains optimistic, stating that the start to the season has been better than expected.

He attributes his starting position to his consistent quality in training and matches, despite being a non-physical player. Tanaka, 28, is living his dream of playing in the Premier League, a goal he once thought impossible when he was younger.