Q, please review the National game and the scoring scenes.
A, first of all, regarding the scoring scene, when the ball was passed to player Mita and he was dribbling, I could visualize a 4-on-2 situation in my mind. Also, before the match started, including the condition of the field, the team had discussed taking lots of long shots, so when player Mita carried the ball that far, I could already imagine taking a shot. Being aware of rebounds after shots is something I always keep in mind, so as a result of not giving up until the end and aiming carefully, luckily the ball fell right in front of me, and all I had to do was push it in.
Q, in the 2021 season's Levain Cup Final Round, you have scored in three consecutive matches at the National. What are your thoughts on that?
A, I believe that we must always give 100% at any stadium, and I always want to score goals. I think we have a great compatibility with National Stadium, having scored in three consecutive matches there, and I would be happy if we have a match at National Stadium again.
Q: You scored 8 goals in the 2020 season, 9 goals in the 2021 season, and reached 10 goals for the first time this season. How do you feel about that?
A, of course I am happy to have reached 10 goals, but as a player, I believe I need to improve every year. I think it is positive that my goal tally has increased with each passing season. I believe reaching this important milestone of 10 goals will help the team move up to a higher position and also help me climb higher in the scoring rankings.
Q: Looking at this season's scoring rankings, don't you think you might be in the running for the top scorer?
A, looking at the current number of goals, being among the top scorers, I am considering the possibility of becoming the top scorer and aiming for it. Of course, the teams of the players competing in the rankings still have matches left, but I want to focus on scoring myself and be the player with the most goals by the end of the season.
I think it would be amazing to become the top scorer playing as a winger instead of a center forward.
<div>A, I think the center forward is closer to the goal, so it is easier for them to score. However, I also cut inside from the wing and make sure to take shots when the opportunity arises, and sometimes, luckily, those shots go in. Of course, there are also goals that come from practicing as usual. While it is true that the center forward is in a position where it is easier to score, I believe that the goals are more a result of my own efforts to aim for the goal and play accordingly.
Q, I am looking forward to the 11th goal.
A, I will do my best to be able to take it.
Q: What do you think is the reason for consistently scoring 10 goals this season?
A, I believe there is, of course, a divine connection. I also think the results of training are showing. While always giving my best effort, whether I start the match or come on as a substitute, I play with the desire to achieve visible results such as goals and assists for the team, and this season I have reached 10 goals.
Q: I think the next game against Kashima will be an important match for the team to move up in the rankings.
A, all team members understand that the upcoming match against Kashima is an important game to move up the rankings. We were able to start the Kyoto match with good momentum and played well throughout the full 90 minutes. Similarly, we want to start strong and achieve good results, and we plan to spend this week preparing for that.
Q: Kashima changed coaches during this season, but I believe there are both aspects that remain true to Kashima and aspects that are trying to change. What areas do you want to pay attention to while fighting?
A, Kashima has changed their coach and I think there are some parts where their approach has also changed slightly, but more importantly, the most crucial thing is whether they can stick to their own style. The opponents may have various methods and new styles, but above all, it is important to do what they themselves must do. If they cannot do that, victory will become distant. I believe it is important to fight for 90 minutes after doing what needs to be done and aim for victory.
Q: This season has reached 5 matches. Having played up to this point, has your awareness of your role within the style of football that Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA demands changed in any way?
Regarding the role required by the coach, I believe it has not changed from the beginning of the season until now. However, the level expected has changed, and I think I am now able to meet a higher level than at the start of the season.
Q: There are matches where I start as a member of the starting lineup, and there are matches where I come on as a substitute. I think coming on during a match presents a greater challenge.
A, of course, when entering the game partway through, the intensity of the press and what is required are different from when starting the match, so I think it is difficult for players to come on midway. However, what needs to be done is already decided, so I focus on fulfilling those requirements and play with that in mind.
