Leeds United Midfielder Ao Tanaka Eyes More Premier League Minutes

Ambitions for the Future

Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka has expressed his desire to "play more minutes and experience more years" in the Premier League following his crucial role in the club's promotion victory.

Recent Performance and Statistics

Tanaka made 43 Championship appearances during the 2024-25 season, contributing five goals and two assists as Leeds United secured automatic promotion and clinched the second-tier title on goal difference. These are confirmed facts based on the source.

Player Statements

• Premier League Ambition: Tanaka stated that "Everyone in Japan knows the Premier League is the best league in the world" and expressed a desire to play more minutes and experience more years here. This is a reported claim of future intent.
• Chelsea Goal: He recalled scoring his first Premier League goal against Chelsea last season, calling it "the best goal in my history" and hoping to add more big goals. This is a reported claim of personal sentiment.
• Fan Support: The 28-year-old thanked the Leeds United fans for making him feel "so comfortable" at Elland Road, expressing happiness over hearing his special chant to the beat of 'Tequila' by The Champs.
• Bournemouth Fixture: Tanaka described Bournemouth as a "massive opponent" for their upcoming Premier League match, acknowledging it would be a tough game. He noted the team hasn't won in four games and must "put everything into it" while keeping positive.

Match Details

• Teams: Leeds United vs. Bournemouth
• Competition: Premier League
• Venue: Elland Road
• Match Date and Time Zone: Unknown (not specified in source)
• Format: League match
• Result/Score: Leeds United secured promotion and the second-tier title on goal difference in the 2024-25 season; upcoming fixture against Bournemouth is unplayed.