Q: The opening is just a few days away.
A, it felt like it went by in an instant. It feels like we've come this far in no time since the camp started, and I don't think I'll truly feel it until the season begins, but right now, I don't feel any tension, and I have a strong desire to give it my all.
Q: Last season, did you gain significant experience by participating in a number of matches?
Yes, I think it was significant that I was able to consistently participate in matches last season and gain various experiences.
Q: Given the many things you've learned from experience, is it easier to visualize your play?
A, I was able to participate in the match against Urawa last season, so I have a certain image in mind.
Q: When I ask any player, they say they feel quite confident. I hear that they have mainly focused on the offensive part, but from the perspective of a defensive player, how do you feel about the current confidence?
A, whether watching from the back or actually participating in the attack, I feel that we are able to advance our offense more favorably compared to last season, and we often have the upper hand. Instead of matching the opponent's movements, we have a good feeling that we are able to play the way we aim for.
Q: Does this mean that the team's tactics have penetrated to some extent and that they have gained confidence?
A, that's right. We have a common understanding as a team, and I believe that what we have built up since last season is taking shape as confidence that we can do it. I also feel growth both as an individual and as a team while playing.
Q: Your positioning during attacks is higher than last season, isn't it?
A, last season I didn't often become the starting point for attacks from the side, so the coach mentioned that by doing so, we could increase our scoring. I have been consciously playing with that in mind since camp. I think we are gradually starting to take shape. I personally excel in offense, so while it's natural to focus on defense, I feel really happy to be participating more in the attack compared to last season.
Q. However, I believe we should not increase the number of goals conceded. Since we are on the defensive line, it is necessary to play with balance in mind.
A. While it's natural to have zero goals conceded, I believe that if we can play soccer while taking the initiative in an attacking manner rather than pulling back too much due to an excessive focus on defense, we can also avoid conceding goals. To reduce goals conceded, it's certainly important to improve the quality of our defense, but I also think it's necessary to enhance the quality of our attack and the ability to maintain possession of the ball.
Q: I hear the words 'league championship' from every player, but what are your thoughts on this season?
We are not aiming for the league championship, but it is important to fight each match as if it were the Final Round, and the coach has also said this. I have been playing with that mindset since camp, so if each individual can win their one-on-one battles and those critical moments, I believe we will naturally achieve great results. For now, I am only thinking about winning the opening match and getting off to a good start.
Q: Have you been feeling the most fulfilled so far, and are you calm in a good way?
A, I don't have much composure. I feel a bit anxious, but I have more positive concerns, and since returning last season, I've been involved in matches up until now, so in that sense, I think I'm the most fulfilled.
Q: I have seen you struggle deeply when you are troubled, so I thought that the phrase 'positive worries' is a really good expression.
A, it's a positive concern, or rather, I've become able to have a positive perspective. Just being around strong-minded players like Yuto NAGATOMO has made my own way of thinking more positive. Until now, I was focusing too much on the negatives and becoming increasingly negative, but now I feel like I have a very positive mindset.
Q: Rather than consulting, is it a feeling of being naturally pulled along just by being in the same space and practicing together?
A, I feel like I'm being naturally drawn in, and I truly think they are an amazing person.
Q: The opening match will be the first time in a while that we have 100% capacity and cheering is allowed in all seats. What are your thoughts on this?
A, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, during my first year as a professional, I was on the bench for the away match against Shimizu and felt the atmosphere. However, I did not play in that match, and it was my first time experiencing a game with fans filling the entire stadium, so I am looking forward to what it will be like if I get to play. I am excited for the opening match at Ajinomoto Stadium, as I have never even been on the bench there.
Q: Does the opening match feel different when you often enter as a key player from the start?
A. Until now, the camps have been irregular due to injuries and the Levain Cup Final Round, and this is the first time I am fully involved in the starting lineup competition from the beginning. I think that’s why the camp felt like it was over in an instant. Compared to before, I feel a stronger desire for the opening match.
Q: I feel that there has been an increase in plays where we connect and break through while interacting with midfield players.
A, I have been playing more towards the front, and I have been repeating trial and error during camps and practices. It's not perfect yet, but I am gradually getting a feel for it.
Q: What is your relationship with player Morishige like?
A, I think you can see that he is a truly great player. When he clearly makes a move, he is being watched, and rather than trying to play according to Morishige, he is being observed when he makes his own move. If we create various options, he will make the best choice, so I am conscious of believing and running.
Q: I think I am growing by absorbing various things.
A, since moving up to the top team, I have experienced a repetitive style of play under former coach Hasegawa, where the full-backs actively participated in attacks and defended. However, since Coach Albert took over, everything has changed 180 degrees, and I am now playing a style of football that I have never done before. The full-backs think and move inside, stretch wide, and interchange with the defensive midfielders. There hasn't been much emphasis on thinking while playing until now, so I initially felt a sense of difficulty. However, conversely, I believe that if I can absorb this style of football, I can greatly expand my potential. Since last season, little by little, I feel that my range of play has broadened compared to before meeting Coach Albert.
Q: When I interviewed Keigo HIGASHI, I asked about the characteristics of each player. He mentioned that although he has a gentle personality, if he can change his demeanor once he steps onto the pitch, he might become the best full-back in the world.
A, I don't feel that much kindness on the pitch, but I think it would be good if I could be more aggressive. I've been told that by everyone, so I want to be conscious of that and break through this year.
Q: What are your goals for this season?
A, it is clearly there, but I will keep it to myself.
