Q: The opening is just a week away.
A, it's cold in Tokyo after returning from Okinawa (laughs). The soccer I am aiming for is indeed difficult, but I think I am gradually understanding it, or rather, getting closer to the soccer that the coach intends.
Q: Have you started to share the image of the football style that the entire team aims for?
While we play on the pitch, there are parts where we think it would be better to do it this way, and while we play thinking for ourselves, there are also new players who have joined, and I believe our combinations are deepening.
Q: In the previous style, even in scenes where you were speeding up, is it possible that you would slow down due to voices from around you?
A, last season we often sent the ball forward regardless of the situation, but now we differentiate based on the circumstances. When we can attack quickly, we do so, and when we need to connect to avoid losing the ball, we do that. I believe making that distinction is important. We don't force ourselves to go forward, but we make sure not to miss opportunities when we can attack. If we can score with a single pass behind the defensive line, that's great, but no opponent will make it easy for us. That's why we want to control the ball, create rhythm, and play creatively, like drawing the opponent forward and then passing behind them.
Q: How does the team unify its awareness in the differentiation of roles?
I think it's about communication and raising awareness among everyone. As we play matches, I believe that the timing of when we can go and when we cannot will become a shared understanding, so I think the level of completion and the accuracy of our judgment will improve.
Q: The opening match opponent is Kawasaki Frontale. Is there anything you are particularly aware of?
A, they are the championship team from last season, and we will face them eventually, so it might be good to play against them early. They have new players coming in, and some players have transferred, so I don't think their level of completion is perfect. We respect them, but without fear, we want to express the style of football we are aiming for.
