[Interview with Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA]
Q: I think Shonan will defend from the front line, what are your countermeasures?
As for the defensive elements, there are parts that come from the front, but when we are broken through, I think there is a tendency to lower the block and solidify the defense. It is necessary to break through the press from the front line, but first, it is important to showcase our own soccer rather than focusing on the opponent's characteristics to grow. There are members who have not been able to participate in matches, so please look forward to it. I want the players to take advantage of their chances to compete for positions. We have been able to train well, and if possible, I hope to give everyone playing time to contribute to enhancing the team's completeness. However, we must choose the players. I want to utilize many young players and hope to create opportunities for the next league match.
Q: Does this mean that players who are not participating in the match will have opportunities to play?
A, the season has just begun, and we want to give all players a chance.
Q: I think the team is still developing, but what are the factors behind the three consecutive league wins and the accumulation of points?
It is very good that we are able to grow while accumulating points. This season is a time for growth as we establish a new style of soccer, but we will continue to demand that we play with a focus on winning. To enhance our level of completion, we need to repeat trial and error throughout the matches. I believe that finding areas for improvement from mistakes and preparing for the next match leads to growth. If we can focus on competition and accumulate points while growing, I think it is an ideal process for both the team and individuals. There will be matches in the Levain Cup during the league season. I would like to utilize young players and those who have not had many opportunities to play, but since there are no league matches this week, I plan to make different player selections.
Q: I believe Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA has the ability to develop young players, but where do you think the opportunities for players to grow come from?
A, training is important, and it is necessary to appeal and show your presence. This is how decisions are made regarding your selection. You must have the mental strength to express yourself. On the other hand, if you are able to appeal but are not selected and miss opportunities, I believe that is the responsibility of the coach. Young players tend to be the type that are boldly utilized, and it is common in this world for teams to gradually transition to a new generation. I believe it is necessary for the coach to utilize young players for the club's goals.
Q: The participation in the World Cup has been decided, and player Nagatomo also participated in that match.
A,I think we had a good match and played well. It is necessary to have a good performance against teams that are physically superior, like Australia. The situation will change in the Asian qualifiers and the World Cup finals. Personally, I hope the Japan national team can continue its current playing style. I would be happy to see many players from Tokyo selected and playing in the finals.
[Player Interview]
<Hirotaka MITA>
Q: You were brought on in the second half and made an impact. How do you feel about the match against Hiroshima?
A, in the sense that I changed the flow, the coach told me I did well. I also think it was good that I was able to achieve results myself, but there were many things the team couldn't do, so I believe there are areas for improvement.
Q, is it necessary to have high skill and intensity to establish a new style?
A, we have just started a new style this season, so I think it will take time to complete it. However, since we have gathered highly skilled players, I believe there are parts that will work well. The coach also assigns positions that make the most of the players' characteristics. Within that framework, we are told to show our individual traits, so I think each player needs to express their uniqueness on the pitch and play with high intensity.
Q: What are your thoughts and enthusiasm heading into the match against Shonan?
A, I want to play by getting involved with the ball and moving towards the goal to bring out my strengths. Of course, I am particular about the results, and I will express our football style. As we grow, I think it will be an important match because we want to win as many titles as possible.
Q: I believe that player Mita is a driving force for the team amidst the intense competition within the team.
A, becoming a veteran and playing for the team is essential, but since this is a world where you cannot survive without achieving individual results, I want to work hard while maintaining a good balance.
Q: What is the difference between matches where the team successfully builds up play throughout the game and those where it does not?
A, there were many instances of losing the ball when pressured from the front line. I think it is necessary to improve the accuracy of passing the ball and the quality of support positioning, and to have a shared understanding among the players.
Q. As a midfielder, do you have any reflections on facing opponents with a three-back and a four-back formation?
A, we have been able to practice against opponents using a three-back formation. In the match against Iwata, we had possession of the ball but were unable to penetrate the attacking third, and in the match against Hiroshima, we could not maintain possession. Since the system changes depending on the opponent, I think it is necessary to adapt and make changes accordingly.
Q: The team has achieved three consecutive league victories and has accumulated points.
A, there are parts where we can play the way we want and parts where we cannot. I believe that improving our new soccer style and winning will be interesting for fans and supporters to watch, so we want to aim for that.
Q: I think your position has changed from the pre-season camp to the opening. What kind of appeal did you make?
A, before the season started, he received the ball as an anchor while creating rhythm, and I think his ability to play with high intensity in defense also contributed to his positive evaluation.
Q: What do you keep in mind during the match?
A, simply passing to a forward-facing player and connecting the ball in a straightforward manner. Decision-making is also important, so I always keep that in mind.
<Keita YAMASHITA>
Q: You joined Tokyo this season. How do you feel looking back from the opening match to now?
A, as a team, I think we are able to take a positive approach toward the new style of soccer. We have won three consecutive league matches, and there is no doubt that we are moving in a good direction. However, on a personal level, I believe I need to achieve better results and contribute more to the team's strength.
Q: Player Yamashita has started and played the full 90 minutes in both matches of the Levain Cup so far. How do you feel about your performance?
A, as a forward, I am focused on scoring goals, so it is frustrating that I have not yet achieved the result of scoring. My condition is good, but in matches, there are still areas lacking in coordination with those around me. I want to continue playing matches and training to be able to score goals in a good way as soon as possible.
Q: What kind of play is expected from player Yamashita in the possession football advocated by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA?
There are various things expected of me, but the most important is to score goals. This is always emphasized, and I am conscious of it myself. No matter the form, I am determined to score goals and practice with that intention. I believe everyone understands Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA's instructions, both in attack and defense. However, I feel that to express these details thoroughly, the team needs to gain more experience together.
Q: Please share your enthusiasm for the upcoming match against Shonan for the fans and supporters.
A, I believe we must win here to advance past the group stage of the Levain Cup, so everyone will go for the full 3 points. To that end, I want to fulfill my responsibility as a forward and deliver results. Personally, I also want to contribute more to the team by showcasing my strengths. Thank you for your support!
Official match day program is here!
