Over 800,000 SNS Followers! Junichi Tanaka Paulo, the 'Most Viral' Active J-Leaguer Who Contributed to Tochigi City's Three Consecutive Promotions, Announces His First Book 'How I Fought When I Wasn't Chosen'—Pre-orders Now Open!

This book compiles the experiences and 'never-give-up' mindset of active professional soccer player Junichi Tanaka Paulo, from his childhood and path to becoming a pro, through his setbacks, to becoming the most viral J-Leaguer and contributing to Tochigi City's three consecutive promotions. Currently playing for J2 Tochigi City, Tanaka is also a prominent influencer with over 800,000 total SNS followers. This is the first book by this unique J-Leaguer, who was also nominated for the TikTok Awards Japan 2025. He was never selected for regional training centers in elementary or junior high school and never achieved results in major national tournaments. People laughed at his dream of becoming a pro soccer player and told him it was impossible. Yet, he continued to work hard, caught the eye of scouts with his playing style in high school, and made his professional debut with Kawasaki Frontale. However, he left the team after one year. After failing to secure contracts in the Netherlands, Germany, the Czech Republic, and France, he returned to Japan. He restarted his career at J3 Zweigen Kanazawa. After stints at FC Gifu, Renofa Yamaguchi FC, and Matsumoto Yamaga FC, he eventually faced contract expiration. With nowhere left to go, he sought a comeback at Tochigi City, then in the Kanto League Division 1. Through this turbulent career, he continues to stand on the J2 pitch today. This book summarizes the thoughts that kept him moving when he was about to break, and the actions he took by doing everything he could. To those who have been laughed at for their dreams or told 'you can't do it,' this book offers the perspective of the 'unselected'—a side that so-called elites cannot write about. Alongside his professional soccer career, he actively posts on SNS, including TikTok. His 'Pau-chan' series has gained explosive popularity among younger generations, establishing his presence beyond the sports world. In this book, he also discusses his attitude of 'doing whatever it takes to be known' through SNS.