It can be said to be truly overwhelming.
Yuto NAGATOMO, who joined the Japan national team, is making his presence felt both on and off the pitch.
On the first day of practice on March 18, just like before, he started the warm-up run at the front, responding to the calls of fans and supporters with a smile and a wave. In the following footwork drills, he naturally took the lead in the group, driving the team forward. During ball drills, he reacted loudly, called out players' names, and coached, enhancing the team's atmosphere. It felt like the familiar scene that had been present in the Japan national team for many years had returned.
It seems that the player's excitement is through the roof with the long-awaited national team call-up.
"I woke up around 5 AM today, and my cells were starting to buzz, so I told them to 'calm down for now.' It was just that much fun. (After the match against Avispa Fukuoka) On the second day, I usually feel the fatigue setting in, but once I got here, it all disappeared in an instant. I was reminded that awareness and feelings are important in that regard. It all starts with the mindset."
The surrounding players also expressed their reactions, saying, "The ambition and passion are truly impressive." Furthermore, "We can't just rely on Yuto-kun. Our generation has to step up" (Itakura Ko). It seems that he is already having a positive influence and providing motivation to the team. This style remains unchanged even at the dormitory, where it is said that "the voices are so loud that they can be heard at the next table" (Ito Hiroki).
Nagatomo himself said, "(Young players) initially kept their distance from me a bit, but I think we've grown closer through practice," with a slight wry smile, but he understands what is needed for the Japan national team. He is determined to once again fight with the Yatagarasu emblem on his chest to bring that back.
Hajime MORIYASU's Japan finished in the top 8 at the AFC Asian Cup in January, and now is the time to raise the mood once again. In March, as the second round of the Asian qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 26 resumes, Yuto Nagatomo has been chosen as a member to help rebuild the team.
(Last year's Japan national team) was lively and dynamic, full of enthusiasm and spirit. However, during the Asian Cup, there was neither energy nor spirit. I don't know what influenced that, but if one gear meshes well, things can change; conversely, if they don't mesh, there's a fear of not being able to win even in Asia. The good atmosphere and the vibe of a winning team are something I have a basis for, based on my experiences from four World Cups. I want to create that kind of atmosphere.
He understands his role as the "mood maker" to change the team's atmosphere. However, he certainly does not intend to stop there.
In Tokyo, they have maintained excellent condition since last season and have continued to perform well from the start of this season. Their stamina does not wane even in the final stages of the match, and their speed and timing in overlapping the sides to create chances remain at the top level in the league. Takefusa KUBO, who matched up in a mini-game on March 19, even said with a smile, "It was fun to have a good kind of persistence after a long time."
"Honestly, I think I'm younger than anyone else. I feel like I'm in my 20s condition. I believe I was called up because I can still move. What I've been doing in Tokyo has been recognized. I have been preparing to be told, 'We need Nagatomo,'" he said, proudly joining the national team with his experience from playing in the J-League.
The word "necessary" also includes the experience he possesses. The away game against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on March 26 will be held in Pyongyang. Although Nagatomo did not participate in the previous expedition in 2011 due to injury, he stated, "No matter who the opponent is or how harsh the location, I have the confidence to perform. I believe it’s all about the mindset. If the mindset crumbles, the team crumbles too. I want to maintain a strong mindset. If there is one energetic person, that energy spreads. I always want to be that kind of presence," indicating the mental expectations for the unknown battle.
In Tokyo, he mainly plays as a right back, but in the current Japan national team, Seiya MAIKUMA and Yusei SUGAWARA are both active as right backs, and there is a high possibility that he will be used as a left back, where he played in the past.
It has been about 1 year and 3 months since the call-up of the Japan national team since the Qatar tournament. This is a serious competition for his fifth appearance in the main tournament, and the chance has come for him to demonstrate his abilities.
"I will go for the fifth time. I have decided that within myself, and from there, I am working hard and approaching it in reverse. I might get criticized for saying this arrogantly, but I want to use that as energy and do my best."
Although it has been a while since the Japan national team, the expected roles are diverse. There is also a demand to break through difficult situations. To once again prove his value and to carve out a future for both the Japan national team and himself, the passionate man challenges the international stage once more.
text by Tomo Aoyama
