On the fourth day of camp, practice started under the strong sunlight typical of Okinawa.
The morning practice started with a physical conditioning menu, followed by finishing from passing drills, ball circulation, and finally, we worked on positional games.
In the menu that leads from passing work to finishing, we are focusing on improving shooting accuracy in front of the goal and being aware of the timing to receive passes while opening up to the side.
In possession games, while keeping in mind the importance of circulating the ball and not losing it with few touches, we played by maintaining tempo and connecting at close distances, but also had the option to spread the play if the opposite side was open.
In the second year of Albert PUIG ORTONEDA's management, there is an impression that the team is smoothly moving the ball in all menus.
In the afternoon practice, we warmed up before engaging in a practice match.
We are checking positions while trying out various combinations of players.
All the players are able to practice with good expressions.
It's a tough time at the beginning of camp, but we will continue to engage in fulfilling training.
On the fourth day of camp, we bring you an interview with rookie Naoki KUMATA, who has been promoted from the U-18 team.
Q: You have started practicing in Tokyo as a professional. How do you feel about it now?
A, within myself, I feel there are parts that work well, but as a forward, I still have quite a few areas where I am lacking to become a regular starter.
Q: You always seem confident, but do you ever get nervous during practice or games?
A, The atmosphere is different at the stadium, but I don't get nervous during practice.
Q: You had scoring ability while enrolled in the academy.
The level between the academy and the top team is quite different, not just by one or two steps, and I want to develop my strengths to a level that can compete even in the J1 top league.
Q: Which specific skills would you like to develop?
A, currently we are playing with a lone striker, so the biggest difference is in how we hold the ball compared to Diego OLIVEIRA, and I want to improve my ball retention skills.
Q: Are there any requests from the coach?
A, I think number 1 is to score goals, but I believe the coach wants players to play boldly.
Q: I believe you have participated in practice since last season and have already made your official match debut, so you may understand some aspects of the style the coach is looking for. How do you feel about it again?
A, I have a good understanding of the defensive aspect. However, in terms of offense, I need to showcase my strengths more because I think crosses from the side won't come to me otherwise. I want to work on highlighting the parts of my attack where I can stand out more.
Q: Are you aiming for a spot in the starting lineup for the opening match?
A, aiming.
Q: Which players are you close with in Tokyo? Do you also go and ask older players about their experiences?
A, I talk with all the players, but especially with Ryoma WATANABE, I often talk about soccer.
Q: What are your goals for this season?
A is aiming for 10 goals this season. Of course, that is the goal, but the most important thing is to start in the opening match, and not only the results but also personally, to score at least one goal and secure a regular starting position.
