Confidence that shows in words and expressions
In a season where he pursues results as the main axis, DF 49 Kashif BANGNAGANDE
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, filled with club love, desire for titles, aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill, will be revealed. Kashif BANGNAGANDE's 2023 season was supposed to be a major turning point in his soccer career. His debut for the Japan national team and the responsibility he must fulfill in Tokyo. The left-back of the Paris Olympics generation has grown significantly both on and off the field.
The 2024 season may be the year of this man. He has been with Tokyo since his school days. It has been over 10 years since then. Kashif BANGNAGANDE, who has strong blue and red blood running through him, is about to stand on his own.
The recent changes and growth have been remarkable. He has shown his talent as a left back by utilizing his original weapon, the left foot cross from the breakthrough to the vertical, but in the 2022 season, his third as a professional, he met with former coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA who emphasized "positional play", which expanded his playing style.
Learned to use the center while keeping the awareness of vertical play, and gradually acquired the position and passing of build-up. Although aiming for the Tokyo Olympics to be held this summer, the U-23 Japan national team was also called up for the first time in March last season, and made a breakthrough by earning their first cap.
Under the guidance of Peter CKLAMOVSKI, who took over in the middle of last season in Tokyo, the team continued to train and improve their proud attacking power. The improvement in defense, which was a challenge, also shone, and by the end of last season, they had firmly secured their place as regulars.
With high expectations for full operation since the opening, this season's expression has been bright since the pre-season, and both play and words are filled with confidence.
"The result is really what I want the most. The number of games is gradually increasing, but I am frustrated that I cannot produce results. That is something I am also demanding of myself. Compared to last season, I have a very good feeling and sense of accomplishment, so I want to make it even stronger and shape it into something good."
The confidence and determination that arise at the same time are a manifestation of self-awareness as the main axis, and determination can be seen in those words.
"Playing in a match comes with a lot of responsibility. I've come to understand that if I don't have that awareness, I won't be able to play. Throughout last season, I felt that if we don't play more aggressively, the team won't improve. So, it's important for us to proactively communicate and have the awareness that each of us is the center of the team."
He is currently experiencing significant growth both on and off the field. With his bright smile still shining, Kashif BANGNAGANDE is about to become a true man.
text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
