"World's 9th ranked" center back
Vowing for further growth for the team
DF 44 Henrique TREVISAN
Special content introducing the all-blue and red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players thinking and what kind of determination are they approaching the year with as they prepare for the opening? The players' stories are filled with club love, thirst for titles, aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill──. Henrique Trevisan, who had a season of complete recovery from a major injury. With his overwhelming strength in aerial battles and his compatibility with the coach's high line high press style, he has become an indispensable presence on the team.
On January 20th, during the Okinawa Kunigami Camp, my teammates celebrated my 27th birthday. With a birthday cake in hand, I happily expressed, "It's my third time at the Kunigami Camp and I'm happy to be celebrated by everyone again."
Such a nice guy made a comeback from two left shoulder dislocations last season.
"I have suffered from injuries and it was tough. It was the first major injury in my career. But, I had the support of my family and I wanted to come back here no matter what."
As the words suggest, although he only played in 9 games in the first half of the league, he quickly adapted to the aggressive style of high line high press tactics under the leadership of coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI. He became an indispensable presence with his high physical abilities.
As a result, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) recognized research institution, the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES), announced that they ranked 9th in the world for aerial duel success rate among center backs. They were delighted to be included in the list alongside renowned national team players, saying "I also read that article."
"Aerial battles are also my strength. I was happy to see my name there. I was recognized for my aerial prowess, but I will continue to work hard to be recognized for other aspects as well."
And this season, he said, "I still have room to grow" and vowed to further improve his level.
"Personally, I think I need to improve my own play more. That includes communication, passes in build-up, and really every single thing. I think this season is a fresh start. The coaching staff has changed and I think personal improvement is necessary."
Not just birthdays. Laugh together, rejoice together. I know that the charm of soccer is to enjoy it together with everyone.
"It's natural for the player who scores a goal to stand out, but that doesn't mean (as a defender) I have any thoughts about it. Because soccer is a collective sport. We score and win together. It's always like that. Winning gives us confidence and we can also share the joy with everyone, so it's the best."
I don't make flashy victory poses. But when I see my teammates celebrating around me, I always smile. The kind-hearted Brazilian will continue to support the team in a gritty manner this season, in order to savor that moment.
Text by Koji Baba (Freelance Writer)
