The team took their first day off during this camp yesterday to recharge and is now entering the second half of the camp. After resting their bodies, they will have two training sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. While increasing the training volume to improve their condition, they will also accelerate the understanding of tactical aspects.
The morning start involved a menu to enhance agility after training with running and tubes, and during the positional game, the intensity was increased while fiercely contesting the ball in both offense and defense.
Finally, we conducted finishing work in front of the goal. We placed a dummy representing the opponent and confirmed the buildup from the defensive line to the front of the goal, ensuring that all players understood the pathway to finish.
After the morning practice, we conducted a press interview with players Kimoto and Watanabe.
It is also published in the FANZONE, so please take a look.
In the afternoon practice, after training to improve physical condition, we conducted passing drills in various forms.
In training to improve finishing in front of the goal, we practiced targeting behind the opponent's side while connecting the ball along the defensive line, and then scoring with a cross.
After practice, we could see players talking in detail with those in similar positions to ensure everyone has a common understanding.
Tomorrow will be the third training match at the Okinawa camp.
A great opportunity to test the results built up in practice. We will face a J.League team for the first time this season.
After practice, the players, including Nagatomo, went outside the field and created a message of 'Bravo!!!' by mowing the grass. Thank you.
Player Nagatomo also had a surprised expression and the best smile. If you are at the venue, please try to find him among the grass outside the stadium.
On the 11th day of camp, we conducted an interview with Hotaka NAKAMURA.
Q: I often stay until the end after practice to train.
A, since I have never had a year without injury after turning professional, getting injured lowers my evaluation the most and also reduces my performance. Therefore, this season I really want to continue fighting for the entire year without getting injured, and I believe it is something I must do to the fullest extent.
Q: If you continue during the second training camp and enter the season, it seems like you can build a body that won't get injured.
A: This season, I have been working closely with the trainer to carefully adjust my offseason training methods, focusing especially on strengthening my muscles. In that sense, I believe my current physical condition is good and I am well-prepared. As practice matches continue from now on, I plan to proceed while checking my condition and controlling the load accordingly.
Q: I think there was no hesitation in your play during the first practice match.
A, this season the coach has told me to be more offensive as a side back, and personally I want to be involved in scoring and assisting goals, so in that sense, I am conscious of who will take the open space and play accordingly. I think now is a perfect opportunity to confirm formations and positioning, so I want to focus on quantity over quality, ingraining it into my body, and continue with trial and error.
Q: There was a moment in today's practice where Kumada scored from a cross on the far side. How did it feel?
A, this season, not only the crosses after cutting inside deeply but also when I open up wide, I believe I need to earn the trust that if I get the ball to Hodaka, he will definitely deliver a good cross. To reach the next level, I think it's necessary to have my own style. If I can supply good balls, there are excellent players in the center, so all the fullbacks need to be conscious of that and work together. If good crosses come in, I believe Kumada will finish them off (laughs).
Q: What specific training did you do during the off-season?
A, I lacked muscle strength around the joints near my hips, which caused problems and led to a muscle strain last season. These issues were the cause of my injuries, so this year, since I have more time, I have been working hard on a program focused on strengthening those muscles.
Q: Do young players joining the team provide motivation?
A, I quickly reached my late twenties and am no longer considered a young player, so I feel a strong sense of urgency. I can't use my age as an excuse, so I have to take responsibility myself. In that sense, it's important to play proactively and confidently, showing that attitude to the younger players. Also, there is a lot to learn from the juniors; when talking with them, their way of thinking and the fresh ideas that come from being young are stimulating. Since I am 26, I believe I have to play a role in connecting the older and younger players. Right now, the relationships between people are very enjoyable, and I hope to talk with and get to know more players.
Q: Who is an interesting player from your perspective?
A, there are many, including player Arai and player Terayama, everyone is truly unique with no two alike, making interactions very engaging. It's fun.
