The 4th day of camp started with practice under the strong sunshine that is typical of Okinawa.
The morning practice started with a physical conditioning menu, followed by passing work and finishing, then ball movement, and finally ended with positional games.
In the menu of bringing the ball from pass work to finish, we are working on increasing the shooting accuracy in front of the goal and being aware of the timing to receive a pass on the side.
In possession games, we played while keeping in mind the importance of maintaining ball circulation and not losing the ball with few touches, connecting with a close distance while also having the option to expand if the opposite side was open.
Under the second year of Albert Puig Ortoneda's coaching, there seems to be a smooth ball rotation in all menus.
The afternoon practice started with warm-ups before heading into a red and white scrimmage.
We are testing various player combinations and confirming positions.
All players are able to practice with good expressions.
It's a tough timing during the early stages of camp, but we will continue to train hard.
On the 4th day of camp, we bring you an interview with rookie player Naoki Kumata, who was promoted from the U-18 team.
Q, how do you feel now that you have started training in Tokyo as a professional?
A, within myself, I feel that there are still many areas that are not enough to become a starter, both in terms of what works and in the position of forward.
Q, Do you always have a confident impression, but do you get nervous during practice or games?
There is a different atmosphere when it comes to stadiums, but I don't feel nervous during practice.
Q, I had scoring ability while enrolled in the academy.
In the academy and top team, the level is not just one or two, but quite different. I want to bring my strengths to a level that can be used in J1's top team.
Q, Which particular skill do you want to improve?
A, now as a one-top, it is very different from Diego (OLIVEIRA) player to control the ball, so I want to improve my ball retention skills.
Q, Are there any demands from the coach?
I think the most important thing is to score, but I feel like the coach wants me to play boldly.
Q, How do you feel about the style that the coach is looking for, considering that you have already participated in training since last season and have already made your official debut?
A, I can understand quite well in terms of defense. However, in order for me to receive crosses from the side, I need to appeal more to my strengths in attack. I want to be able to show more of my attacking abilities and stand out in that aspect.
Q, Are you also aiming for the opening starting lineup?
A, aiming for it.
Q, Who do you get along with in Tokyo? Do you go out of your way to talk to older players?
I talk to all players, but I especially talk to Ryoma WATANABE about soccer.
Q, where do you place your goal for this season?
Aiming for 10 goals this season. Of course, I will aim for it, but my number one goal is to start in the opening game and not only get results, but also personally score a goal and establish myself as a starter.
