A hardworking genius makes his top debut, showing new potential as the number 10 for the U-17 Japan national team.
MF 23 Ryunosuke SATO
Special content introducing the all-blue-red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players, who are facing the opening, thinking and preparing for the year? The players' stories, hidden in their love for the club, their desire for titles, their thoughts for success, and the roles they must fulfill. Last season, Ryunosuke SATO, who signed a professional contract at the age of 17. The promising player entrusted with the number 10 for the U-17 Japan national team is aiming for his professional debut and an increased presence in the top team.
On August 26, 2023, on the day when Tokyo welcomed Vissel Kobe at the Japan National Stadium, Ryunosuke SATO's professional contract was announced with great fanfare. Still in high school, he was a member of FC Tokyo U-18. As a promising player who was entrusted with the number 10 for the U-17 Japan national team, he was expected to make an early debut in the J1 league, but he was unable to even make the bench in league matches. He also struggled to be involved with the first team in overall training. Despite this, he chose to prioritize the top team instead of focusing on FC Tokyo U-18 in his daily life.
"At that time, if I said I didn't feel any indigestion, it would be a lie. But in my mind, I had decided that I wanted to compete in the top team. Last season, there was also the U-17 World Cup in autumn, and I had the goal of playing in the top team, so I think I was able to work hard every day."
Despite facing adversity, Sato never gave up and continued to work hard with two goals in mind. As a result, he was able to secure a spot as a member of the regular team in the final practice match against Sanfrecce Hiroshima at the Miyazaki camp before the start of the 2024 season. In the 30th minute, he scored the second goal out of four, forming a fluid duo with Ryotaro Araki. The club's goal for the new season, "to play an attacking style of soccer and push forward while maintaining possession," was evident in their performance.
During the pre-season camp, the center forward was absent and the front line was tested for fluidity. "I want to express my desire to be a plus for the team and be a force," said the player, who wants to contribute with their strengths.
"While checking Araki's position, we were able to find open spaces and play freely while looking at each other. It was really fun to play like that, and I thought this kind of soccer is also possible."
A transformation that seems to have brought the culture of the academy, which holds the ball, to the top team that has not been able to break away from the base of solid defense and quick attack. The play involving the young number 23 gives off a fresh sprout-like breath.
"By continuing to play soccer, I have been able to turn opportunities into something tangible. That is my strength," said the 17-year-old who seized the chance with a strong mentality. Despite having a delicate and talented image, this individual with a resilient heart will elevate Tokyo to a new level.
text by Katsu Goto (Freelance Writer)
