Q, did you feel any changes in yourself and the team after winning the Levain Cup in Tokyo as the captain during the 2020 season?
A, to be honest, there were parts where I didn't feel the reality because it was my first title in my career. In the previous season, we finished second in the J1 League and experienced the frustration of being overtaken at the end, so I really felt the difficulty of winning a title. Even before winning it, I felt the difficulty, but after winning it, I realized once again how difficult it is to win a title. The team changes its players and sometimes the coach changes every season. Naturally, I feel the difficulty of continuing to win titles, but I think that each year is a battle more than the fact that the team changes after winning a title.
Q: When you win one title, do you still have the desire to go for the next title?
A, I want to experience that atmosphere over and over again, and it definitely has something special. The joy of winning the title, the atmosphere before the game, and the atmosphere after it's all over are all special. Since I have only experienced it in the Levain Cup, I want to experience the same feeling with a league title. I think the league title is a title that I really want to win in my career because it is the result of fighting throughout the season.
Q, in the Levain Cup, young players also have the opportunity to get a chance. What is your impression of Tokyo's current young players in terms of their play and mentality?
A, I want you to play with all your might. I want you to play while feeling the joy of being able to participate in the game. I feel that even at my age. The field of serious competition is a place where you can't stand unless you win. Coach Albert is also someone who gives opportunities to young players, so I think there are chances. I want you to cherish each game and turn it into an experience for your growth. Even in the match against Iwata in the Levain Cup (held on March 15th), I was able to play with young players, and it was a good stimulus for me. I would be happy if you could watch me and get inspired. I still think my soccer career is long, so I want you to have various experiences.
Q, did you have any specific awareness in communicating with young players in the Iwata match?
A, there are times when we talk about the tactical aspects, but there are also times when we want to let the young players play freely. However, I also have to make my own appeal, and this season, I haven't been able to participate in the league matches that much, so everyone is a rival regardless of age. Still, I was conscious of being considerate in my play, even if I made some mistakes, and I tried to give positive encouragement. I don't know how much of that has been conveyed to the young players.
Q, is it important to realize and play with self-awareness, rather than being told by someone else?
A, it doesn't change regardless of age, not just young players. It won't change unless you realize it yourself and take action. I still have a lot to learn, and it's important to continue thinking for yourself regardless of age.
Q, if you get a chance, you have to fight with all your might and stay positive, right?
A, this season, especially Coach Albert is proactive in giving opportunities to young players, so I hope they seize the chance. Personally, when I was a young player, I felt it was difficult to participate in official matches even in the Levain Cup, but I think it's important to take the opportunity and give it your all. Whether it's in the league or in the Levain Cup, the fans and supporters are paying to come and watch, because that's what being a professional is about. I believe that players who have experienced giving their all in any match should show it.
