Q, please review the National game and the scoring scenes.
First, regarding the scoring scene, when the ball was passed to Mita and he was dribbling, I could visualize a 4 to 2 situation in my mind. Also, even before the match started, we had discussed as a team about taking long shots, including the condition of the pitch, so when Mita carried the ball that far, I could already imagine taking a shot. I always keep in mind the possibility of a rebound after the shot, so I didn't give up until the end, and as a result, the ball fortunately fell right in front of me, and I just had to 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 approach every stadium with 100% effort, and I always want to score goals. I think we have a great compatibility since we have scored in three consecutive matches at the National Stadium, and I would be happy if we have another match at the National Stadium.
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?
Of course, I am happy to have reached 10 goals, but I believe that as a player, I must continue to improve every year. I think it's a positive thing that my goals have been increasing with each passing season. I believe reaching this important milestone of 10 goals is crucial for the team to move up in the rankings and for me to rise in the scoring rankings as well.
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, I am considering the top scorer title since I am in the upper ranks, and I want to aim for it. Of course, there are still matches left for the players competing in the rankings, but I want to focus on scoring consistently, and by the end of the season, I hope to be the player with the most goals.
I think it would be amazing to become the top scorer playing as a winger instead of a center forward.
I believe that forwards are closer to the goal, making it easier for them to score. However, I also make sure to take shots when I can, whether I move in from the wing or find myself in a position to shoot, and sometimes those shots go in thanks to luck. Of course, there are goals that I score as a result of my practice. While it is true that forwards are in positions that make scoring easier, I think that the results of my own efforts to aim for the goal are what truly lead to scoring.
Q, I am looking forward to the 11th goal.
I will do my best to achieve it.
Q: What do you think is the reason for consistently scoring 10 goals this season?
I believe there is certainly a divine connection. I also think the results of my training are showing. While I am fully committed every day, whether I start the match or come on as a substitute, I want to leave visible results for the team, such as goals and assists. 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. The upcoming match against Kashima is understood by the entire team to be an important game for moving up the rankings. In the match against Kyoto, we were able to enter the game with a good flow from the start and played well throughout the 90 minutes. I want to start strong in the same way and achieve a good result, and I plan to prepare for that over the course of this week.
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. I think that while Kashima has changed coaches and there are some changes in their approach, the most important thing is whether they can stick to their own style. Opponents may have various methods and new styles, but above all, it is crucial to do what we must do. If we can't do that, victory will be out of reach. I believe it is important to fight for 90 minutes with the aim of winning after doing what needs to be done.
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?
A, I believe that the role required by the coach has not changed from the beginning of the season to now. However, the level that is being asked for has changed, and I think that I am now able to meet a higher level than I could at the beginning 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 coming on as a substitute, the intensity of the press and the demands are different from when starting from the beginning, so I think it is difficult for players to come on midway. However, there are certain things that must be done, so I am thinking about playing with that in mind.
