Q, please tell us about your feelings regarding trying out new football. Also, at what stage do you think its penetration is?
A, the ball possession rate has definitely been increasing, and what we are currently struggling with is the final finishing part in the attacking third. The team hasn't been getting results easily, and although there have been gradual improvements in training, I believe that experience gained in matches is essential to achieve success. The confidence gained there will surely help the team grow, so while we are struggling at this stage, I feel that the team is growing through repeated trial and error.
Q: I think there are various reactions regarding the recent match results, but do you feel that what you are trying to achieve is taking shape?
A, the ball possession rate has really improved, and I feel it is completely different from last season. On the other hand, as a forward player, there is a strong frustration from not being able to win or score goals, and there is a bit of irritation there.
Q: I feel that in the final breakdown, it is becoming clear that the team is trying to utilize the players' strengths, such as Nagai's speed.
A, personally, I want to increase the number of scenes like the one where I assisted Ada (Adailton) in the match against Kobe. If the whole team can share that, it becomes the biggest chance when we push that deep. Defenders can usually react to just fast crosses, but balls like that are more difficult. If we can improve that accuracy both individually and as a team, the number of goals will probably increase. After that, we need to expand the ways we carry the ball up to that point and broaden our options. As the opponents are gradually studying us, we want to increase our variety and focus on results in the second half of the season as well.
Q: Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA has mentioned wanting to increase attacks through the center. Given that there have been many attacks from the sides, is the intention to increase penetrating passes to the front line through the center?
A, there are also those changes, and there are tactical aspects, so it is difficult to say clearly, but initially, we avoided passes through the center. However, as everyone has been improving, the demands have also increased. By improving that accuracy and being able to attack from both the sides and the center, I believe we will level up even more.
Q: Starting from the camp in January, it feels like the phase has recently elevated a bit. Are you feeling a sense of growth on the pitch?
A, initially the build-up mainly started from a low position, but now we come up with ideas from the midfield forward, focusing on the final finishing touches.
Q: Is the key point for the second half of the season the finishing touches?
A, it's about teamwork, but personally, I think I need to take more shots. If I don't increase the number of shots, like Adailton does when he swings, it leads to goals and creates chances from rebounds. When someone has the ball in those situations and swings, others can follow up, which probably changes how defenders close in, leaving other players open. So, we forwards need to keep swinging.
Q: In the second half of the season, do you want to strengthen your awareness of scoring goals, Nagai?
A, well. I think it might be okay to swing a little more. Since we have a team concept, there is a part where we value possession of the ball, but I feel that if the forward players don't swing their legs there, the team won't gain momentum. Sometimes, because we are too careful, there are scenes where players can't swing their legs even when they should, and they try to assist instead. So, I want to be a player who can swing properly and create some change.
Q: I think there is a dilemma regarding the results and the content, as was the case in the first half of the season. What are your thoughts on balancing both as we head into the second half of the season?
We have to keep accumulating points. We're currently in the middle of the standings, so if we don't earn points, we can't move up. We need to keep focusing on results while continuing to take on challenges.
