With pride and gratitude for blue and red, aiming to be the world's best striker from the "bottom"
FW 28 Leon NOZAWA
Special content introducing the all-blue-red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players who are approaching the opening game thinking and what kind of determination are they making for the year? The players' stories are filled with club love, thirst for titles, aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill. Last season, Leon NOZAWA experienced his J1 debut and training as a warrior. He aims to be the "world's best striker" starting from the bottom. He will continue to work hard and reach new heights without forgetting gratitude and pride.
Wiping away tears and chasing after moments of joy. Last season, I couldn't even participate in the red and white game. Still, I clenched my fist and crawled my way up, making my first appearance since returning as a substitute in the first match of the 2024 J-League YBC Levain Cup group stage against Cerezo Osaka.
However, they were unable to capitalize on their chances in that match, and immediately after, there was something overflowing naturally.
"I played that game as if it were my last. I was prepared for that, so I couldn't get the result and I was so frustrated that I cried."
With that frustration as my motivation, I continued to work hard every day. My constant efforts paid off and I made my J1 debut in the 18th round of the 2023 Meiji Yasuda Life J1 League against Nagoya Grampus. I played in 8 official matches before being loaned to Matsumoto Yamaga FC in J3 League in August. Even at my training ground, I consistently played in matches and scored 2 goals in 15 games. I have grown a little and now I have the opportunity to wear the uniform of my beloved club once again.
"I felt the meaning of representing the team and wearing the emblem. I have taken responsibility for playing in the game and have been prepared for each game. I cannot make light plays because I have responsibility for each play. As long as I fight with this emblem on my chest, I cannot be ashamed."
However, even if I come back, my position has not changed significantly. "It's still starting from the bottom, and what I have to do doesn't change. The shortcut is to do my best and seize the opportunity in front of me. Nothing changes, and I want to express the joy of being able to play here."
It's another step towards a fresh start. I've been supported by many people so far. I've always said, "I didn't come this far on my own. I must not forget to be grateful." The phrases "carry my feelings" and "enjoy any environment" are life lessons he learned in his sensitive teenage years. That's why he always gets back up no matter how many times he falls. It's because of the encounters that lighten his body and the overflowing words around him.
"I am fortunate to have many people supporting me. I believe I have grown a little, so I want to be able to say 'I'm home' with pride, not just in my play and attitude, but also in my results."
3rd season as a pro. Still lacking in achievements. But the goal remains the same, to be the "world's best striker". His personality that pushes everyone forward attracts the ball and makes you want to entrust it to him. That is his greatest talent, I believe.
text by Yohhei Baba (Freelance Writer)
