Q: How is the team's preparation going for the season opener?
A, as the opening approaches, the team's atmosphere and condition are gradually improving. This season, we are playing a different style of soccer compared to last season, and everyone is focused and listening to the coach's instructions. We need to express this on the pitch during the matches, but everyone is in a good mood, and motivation is rising as we head toward the opening.
Q. Has the team as a whole made progress in unifying their mindset?
A, we have played several practice matches, but it is important to instill the tactical intentions in ourselves and unify everyone's thoughts. I believe we are gradually coming together through practice and practice matches. I don't know how much we can show on the pitch in the opening game, but we want to work together as one team.
Q. In the game, the key for the team is to unify their intentions when holding and calming the ball versus moving the ball forward quickly to attack.
Possession is not the goal itself; what is important is to have possession in order to score goals. I believe everyone shares this common understanding. On the other hand, if there is space behind the FW, we will target it first, and I think everyone is playing while considering not to be overly fixated on possession.
Q. Abe, you are known for covering a wide area of the pitch, but how do you balance that with positional play?
A, while playing the role I must fulfill and showcasing my strengths, it is necessary to execute the positional play demanded by Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA. I aim to focus on playing for the team rather than myself, fulfilling the roles required by the team, and in doing so, I hope to also bring out my own characteristics.
Q. Toward the opening match against Kawasaki Frontale.
A, they were a team we couldn't beat last season, and since it's the Tamagawa Clasico, we're very motivated. As this is also the opening match of the entire J.League, we want to play while maintaining high motivation.
