Q: What was the reason for joining FC Tokyo U-15 Musashi from ARTE Hachioji FC Junior?
A, I received offers from both Tokyo and other clubs. I was unsure which one to choose, but I knew a senior who was at Musashi and I also wanted to join a team in the Kanto League, so I decided to go to Tokyo because I wanted to play at a higher level.
Q: Were you also a side player during your junior high school days? Also, what were you conscious of during practice and games when you were in junior high school?
I played as a midfielder and forward. In junior high school, I always gave 100% in practice and worked hard to be able to play in games for the grade above me.
Q: Was there a time or event that you feel changed yourself?
When I was in 2nd year of junior high school, I was taught by Coach Yukihiko SATO. At that time, I was taught how to make dribbles and was allowed to play freely. I think that I am where I am now because I was able to play freely at that time. In 3rd year of junior high school, I was coached by Coach Makoto KITA. There was a time when I was struggling with my future in soccer, but they always supported me and we had many conversations together. I think that the words from Coach KITA at that time greatly changed my life.
Q: Did you consciously work on your dribbling skills from the beginning? Were you already fast on your feet at that time?
A, I have been conscious of honing my dribbling skills since junior high school. The way I dribbled was different from now, and I was able to get past opponents by using feints. From junior high to high school, I came up with my own training menu and incorporated self-practice to improve my weaknesses while also receiving guidance from my coach. Gradually, my speed and physical abilities were enhanced, and I was able to get past opponents by reading their timing even without using feints. This gave me confidence and led to my current style.
Q: How did you feel when you were promoted to FC Tokyo U-18?
A, from the second to third year of junior high school, there was a period of about six months when I couldn't play soccer due to injury. I think it was a delicate line even among the same grade whether I could be promoted or not.
Q: What year did you start playing in games while belonging to U-18?
A, I practiced with the A team from my first year of high school. I also had some involvement with the Premier League. From that time, I had confidence in my dribbling ability. The seniors were very skilled during practice, and we were always able to practice at a high level. Thanks to that, I felt a higher level of play during official matches when practicing with the seniors, so I was able to play with a calm mind during games.
Q: Where did you set your goals during your three years in high school?
A, I was working every day to promote to the top team. Every day, I went to the ground one hour before practice and practiced left foot crosses and shots from cut-ins, which were also my tasks. Naoki KUMATA player practiced crosses with me.
Q: Were there any other youth members who joined the top team? What were your feelings about it?
A, I always had the feeling that I wanted to surpass them someday. I have a strong desire not to lose to my fellow members. I think that the players who joined at the same time are rivals, but also members who can improve each other.
Q: How did you feel when you were promoted to the top team?
A, I was really happy, but I didn't think I could be satisfied just by becoming a professional. I still feel like I have to work hard from here, just standing at the starting line.
Q: Are there any players or specific things you are focusing on in your training?
A: I don't have any players that I am referring to. I play with my own original style. In my individual training, I am conscious of practicing shooting and crosses, as I have been lacking in finishing and have been missing shots in games.
Q: What is expected from Coach Albert?
A, what is being asked for is points and assists. I am often told to come and play with courage and boldness.
Q: What do you think about when you receive the ball during a game?
If it's a 1-on-1 situation, I'll try to make a move first. Depending on the situation, I may change my decision if there are two defenders or not, but my basic approach is to make the move myself. Once I face the opponent's defense, I can get a sense of it to some extent. This allows me to change the course, speed, and timing of my dribble. There are moments when I feel like I can go for it, even though it's hard to put into words. Sometimes I may get stopped by a dribble, and I may feel anxious when I try to make the next move, but I switch my mindset to "It's okay if I fail, I just need to get past the opponent next time" and play.
Q: Are there any enjoyable moments or moments where you feel a sense of accomplishment while playing?
I think everyone feels a sense of accomplishment and joy when they score a goal or make an assist. Of course, I feel the same way, but the most enjoyable moment for me in playing soccer is when I dribble past an opponent.
Q: Are there any players you dislike facing?
A, Hotaka NAKAMURA. He often dribbles past opponents during practice, but even after he does, NAKAMURA is very persistent in his defense. I think he is very skilled at defending.
Q: "Who is the most influential soccer player you have faced in the past?" Tetsuya Tawarazumi mentions Keisuke Honda as his answer. What kind of player is Honda to Tawarazumi?
I chose it because it left the biggest impression on me while watching the World Cup in Brazil and had a great presence. Although our styles are completely different, I also want to show that kind of presence on the pitch.
Q, What are your thoughts on the Japan national team and the 2024 Paris Olympics?
I don't really have any awareness of the national team. My strongest desire is to perform well with the team. That's the only thing I'm thinking about. If I work hard and play well in Tokyo, I believe I will naturally be selected for the Japan national team.
Q: Do you focus on training your physical abilities after practice, as it has been a recent concern?
I believe that if I can improve my physical abilities, I can aim higher. I am focusing on improving my body balance because I tend to lose it when I am hit by an opponent. Rather than building muscle, I am working on strengthening my core and maintaining a solid axis.
Q, I think I've been watching games at Ajinomoto Stadium since my academy days, but what did you think when you stood on the pitch yourself?
A, I have always been on the side of watching from the stands, so I was really happy to be on the side of being watched. I hope I can repay my family for coming to watch the game. When I heard the cheers of many fans and supporters, I was able to get power. When I stood on the pitch of Ajinomoto Stadium for the first time, I was nervous, but there were parts where I thought my dribbling was working. However, I haven't achieved anything in terms of results yet, so I want to be involved in scoring and assisting.
Q: What kind of year do you want the 2023 season to be? Please tell us the team's goals and individual goals.
Team's goal is to win the league. My personal goal is to be involved in games and perform well like Matsuki did in his first season.
Q, Finally, a word to the fans and supporters.
A, the cheers of the fans and supporters during the game are a great source of strength. Sometimes I get nervous before playing, but when I hear the cheers, it becomes a source of energy and gives me courage. I will do my best to live up to expectations, so please continue to support me.
