Q: What was the reason for joining FC Tokyo U-15 Musashi from ARTE Hachioji FC Junior?
A, I received offers from Tokyo and other clubs. I was unsure which to choose, but since I had a senior I knew at Musashi and I was part of the Kanto League, I wanted to join a higher-level team, so I decided on Tokyo.
Q: Was your position on the side during middle school as well? Also, what were you conscious of while practicing and playing matches during your middle school years?
I played as a side and forward. During middle school, I focused on giving 100 percent in every practice, aiming to participate in matches at the next grade level.
Q: Was there a moment or period when you felt you changed?
When I was in the second year of middle school, I was taught by Yukihiko SATO. At that time, I learned how to initiate dribbling and was allowed to play freely. I believe that being able to play freely back then has led to where I am now. In my third year of middle school, I was guided by Makoto KITA. There was a time when I was troubled about my future in soccer, but we spent a lot of time talking together, and he was always there for me. I believe the words from Coach KITA at that time greatly changed my life.
Q: Have you been consciously honing your dribbling skills since then? Were you fast on your feet back then?
Since middle school, I have been conscious of improving my dribbling skills. The way I dribbled was different from now; I used to feint while getting past my opponents. From middle school to high school, I created my own training menu and incorporated the areas I was lacking into my self-practice, learning from my coach as well. Gradually, my speed and physicality were enhanced, and I became able to get past opponents by reading their timing even without feints. Gaining confidence has led to a change in my current style.
Q: How did you feel when you were promoted to FC Tokyo U-18?
A, there was a period of about six months when I couldn't play soccer due to an injury between my second and third year of junior high school. I think it was a delicate line whether I could be promoted among my peers.
Q: From what grade did you start playing in matches while belonging to the U-18 team?
I often practiced with the A team since my first year of high school. I was also somewhat involved in the Premier League. From that time, I had confidence that my dribbling would work. The seniors were incredibly skilled during practice, and we were always able to maintain a high level of training. Thanks to that, during official matches, I felt the high level of play when practicing with the seniors, which allowed me to play calmly during the games.
Q: What were your goals during your three years of high school?
A. I was working every day towards my promotion to the top team. I would go to the field an hour before practice every day and practice crossing with my left foot and shooting from cut-ins, which were my challenges. Naoki KUMATA was practicing crosses with me.
Q: I think there were situations where other youth members participated in the top team. How did you feel about that?
A, I always had the feeling that I would someday surpass them. I have a strong desire not to lose to my peers. I believe that the players who joined at the same time are rivals, but also members who can elevate each other.
Q: How did you feel when it was decided that you would be promoted to the top team?
A, I was really happy, but I thought I couldn't be satisfied just by becoming a professional. I felt like I had only just reached the starting line, and I needed to work hard from here.
Q: Are there any players you look up to or specific things you focus on during your self-training?
A, I don't have any players I reference. I play with my own originality. In my self-training, I have been lacking in finishing, so I have been focusing on shooting practice and, as always since high school, practicing crosses.
Q: What is expected of you by Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA?
A, what is required is scoring and assists. I am often told to play boldly and with courage.
Q: What kind of play do you think about when you receive the ball during a match?
A. If it's a one-on-one situation, I will first take the initiative. Depending on whether there are two defenders or the situation, I may change my judgment, but basically, I will take the initiative myself. Once I face the opponent's defense, I can grasp a certain sense of the situation. This changes the course, speed, and timing of my dribble. When I'm taking the initiative, it's hard to express in words, but there are moments when I feel I can go for it. I may get stopped while dribbling, and I might feel anxious the next time I take the initiative, but I switch my mindset to think that failure is just part of the game and play with the mentality of "I just need to get past the opponent next time."
Q: Are there moments when you feel joy while playing or a sense of fulfillment?
A, I think everyone feels a sense of fulfillment and joy when they score a goal or make an assist. Of course, I feel that way too, but the most enjoyable moment in soccer for me is when I dribble past an opponent.
Q: Are there any players you dislike facing?
This is Hotaka NAKAMURA. He often breaks through during practice when dribbling, but even after getting past, he really sticks to his defense. I think his defense is really good.
Q: You mentioned Keisuke Honda as the "football player who influenced you the most and the player you were most shocked to face in the past." What does Honda mean to you, Tawara Tsukita?
A, I chose him because he left the strongest impression during the Brazil World Cup and had an incredible presence. Although my type is completely different, I also want to have that kind of presence on the pitch.
Q: What are your thoughts on the Japan national team and the 2024 Paris Olympics?
A, I have almost no awareness of the national team. My strongest desire is to perform well with my team first. That is all I am thinking about. If I work hard in Tokyo and can play in matches, I believe I will naturally be selected for the Japan national team.
Q: Recently, you mentioned concerns about your physical condition. Are you focusing on training specifically after practice?
A. I believe that if I can improve my physical abilities, I can aim for higher goals. When I get hit by an opponent, I often lose my body balance, so I am focusing on that. Rather than just increasing muscle, I have the image of strengthening my core and solidifying my axis.
Q: I believe you have been watching matches at Ajinomoto Stadium since your academy days. How did it feel to stand on the pitch yourself?
A. I have always been on the side watching from the stands, so I was really happy to be on the side that is seen. My family came to watch the match, so I hope to repay them. When I heard the cheers from many fans and supporters, I felt energized. When I stood on the pitch at Ajinomoto Stadium for the first time, I was indeed nervous, but I felt that my dribbling was effective. However, since I haven't produced any results yet, I want to be involved in scoring and assists.
Q: What kind of year do you want the 2023 season to be? Please tell us your team goals and personal goals.
A, the team's goal is to win the league championship. My personal goal is to be involved in matches and perform well from the first year, like Matsuki did last season.
Q: Please say a few words to the fans and supporters.
A, the cheers from the fans and supporters during the match are incredibly empowering. There are times when I feel anxious before playing, but hearing the cheers gives me energy and courage. I will do my best to meet your expectations, so please continue to support me.
