Strengthened commitment to scoring in the first year as a professional
Using the frustration experienced from the dramatic ejection as a springboard
MF 38 Soma ANZAI
Every person and player has a story. '2024 PLAYER’S REVIEW' introduces all the blue and red warriors who fought through the 2024 season, player by player. What thoughts did they carry as they went through the season? Confidence, a sense of achievement, challenges, joy, regret... Reflecting on this season's battles through the words of each individual.
Soma ANZAI, who signed a professional contract before graduating from university, officially became a member of the blue and red team this season. He made an immediate impact by coming on as a substitute in the league opener, and from the two consecutive matches in April at the National Stadium, he established himself as a starter on the right wing. Using the frustration from being sent off in an important game as motivation, he continues to grow and strengthen his desire to contribute to the team's victories. He is focused on achieving visible results through numbers. With his versatility to also play as a full-back, he is increasing his presence on the field, reflecting on the sense of accomplishment and challenges he felt in his first year as a professional.
Whether to use the JFA and J-League special designated player system to also play for Waseda University, or to sign a professional contract with Tokyo. The decision to choose the latter during the camp leading up to the start of this season has directly contributed to Soma ANZAI's rapid growth and the acquisition of playing opportunities.
At the start of the season, he was on the verge of being on the bench. As his ranking changed between being a starter or a substitute, he had more opportunities to be included in the starting lineup following his performance in the National back-to-back matches, which he himself described as an "unforgettable event." He participated in almost all matches, including cup matches, even during consecutive games, showcasing his ironman qualities.
"Since I officially joined in a special way a little late, rather than thinking about what I had envisioned, I was always conscious of just continuing to work hard in the moment in front of me. I believe that the results of that have led to who I am now."
Even with the change in position, the tension remained. The tension shifted from whether or not I could make the team to whether or not I could perform and achieve results in the match. With high energy, I ran across the pitch with abundant movement.
However, even the tough Anzai had two breaks. The first was when he received a red card in the first half of the Meiji Yasuda J1 League Sec. 8 match against Verdy, and he was unable to play in the following Sec. 9 match against FC Machida Zelvia due to suspension. The second was when he suffered a facial injury in the Sec. 28 match against Kyoto Sanga F.C.
"Regarding the Verdy match, I felt the harshness of this world. I realized that I was still too naive. I was made to feel that I did not have the ability to stand in such a traditional match... The moment when I gave away the penalty kick was also a significant learning experience for me. The injuries occurred during a time when I was frequently coming on as a substitute, and I believe there were definitely areas where I was too lenient in my approach, and I think that came back to haunt me in the Kyoto match. Even though it was an injury, I perceive it as something that was bound to happen. It was an event that made me reflect on my daily efforts, and it has become a valuable lesson for the future."
However, the frustration experienced from the suspension was eased by participating in the subsequent matches of the YBC Levain Cup 2nd Round and the J1 Sec. 10 match against Albirex Niigata. Regarding the injury, a rapid recovery was achieved, allowing for time to think and refresh. Although there were setbacks, they were transformed into opportunities for growth through a mindset of turning challenges into chances.
The remaining challenge is, after all, scoring goals. The phrase, "As long as I am playing in the forward position, I must deliver results," had become a habit of mine.
"As a winger, I still feel unsatisfied, and I need to deliver results in the position I'm given. I believe I still have a long way to go."
Win and tighten your helmet straps. Maintaining a strict attitude towards oneself, Soma ANZAI will blow through like the wind.
Text by Katsu Goto (Freelance Writer)
