Reasons for feeling comfortable and fulfilled
even with unsatisfactory numbers and results
DF 4 Yasuki KIMOTO
People, players, and stories. Introducing the 2024 PLAYER'S REVIEW, featuring all the blue and red warriors who fought through the 2024 season. What were their thoughts and feelings during the season? Confidence, progress, challenges, joy, and regret... Each player will reflect on their battles this season in their own words.
"Is it said that good things are many?" Is it said that good things are many? An accident happened to Yasuki KIMOTO, who had been feeling good condition and mental condition. An unexpected injury changed the flow up to that point. The 2024 season was positioned as the "year of competition". Unable to leave the expected results and numbers, he was unable to secure a regular position as a center back. However, why was he able to turn his arrow towards himself and show a relaxed and fulfilling expression? Let's look back on the season of number 4.
In his third year since joining, Yasuki Kimoto had positioned this season as a crucial one. However, he was unable to secure a regular position as a center back, playing in only 33 games in his first year and 24 games in his second year, falling short of his expectations.
What is regrettable is the absence due to a broken nose in the first round of the J.League YBC Levain Cup playoffs against Sanfrecce Hiroshima in June. At the time, the player himself reflects, "My body was moving and mentally it was a good time," so it was a shame to have to leave at that timing.
However, looking at his expression, it is also a fact that his third season wearing the blue and red uniform has become the most fulfilling season.
"I wanted to be more involved in the game, and I'm not satisfied with the number of games, but this season I was able to play with a calm mindset and I don't think my performance was bad."
That's why. As I mentioned before the start of the season, turning 30 last August was a significant milestone and undoubtedly a major factor in the change of heart.
"In my first year, I was able to play in many games, but in my second year last season, I had too much pressure on myself and ended up carrying it all alone. Through that experience, I was able to relax and improve my performance this season."
In addition, there is another factor that has allowed Kimoto to face himself, which is the push from the young players. The presence of Kanta DOI, who secured the starting lineup in his second year as a professional at the age of 19, and Teppei OKA, who supported the team in the positions of center back and left fullback despite being a rookie from a university, made the "serious number 4" feel at ease.
"It may sound strange, but I was able to play this season with the mindset that even if I couldn't play in the game, other players would do it for me. With the emergence of young players, I was able to focus on myself and work towards playing in the game, and instead of getting down about not being able to play, I was able to do it for my own growth. I think that's something that has changed for me."
The team that not only failed to win the title this season, but also could not even compete for it, is feeling disappointed and unsatisfied with their playing time.
Still, his refreshing expression and smooth tone remained unchanged from before the opening, and Yasu faced himself in his own way and spent the 2024 season gaining new insights.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
