Regular season battle in second year as a pro
The dream of blue and red spanning two generations
DF 32 Kanta DOI
Special content introducing the all-blue and red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players, who are facing the opening, thinking and what kind of determination are they going to face the year with? The story of the players who have club love, thirst for titles, thoughts for success, and the roles they must fulfill──. Kanta DOI, who has Yoichi DOI (current Yokohama FC goalkeeper coach) as his father, who once built an era as Tokyo's guardian deity. In his second season since being promoted to the top team, he may have a big breakthrough as he competes for a regular position at center back from the pre-season camp.
A tough and gutsy young player has appeared. Kanta Doi, in his second season since being promoted from FC Tokyo U-18, is playing confidently among the regulars. Even after finishing the Okinawa and Miyazaki camps and returning to Tokyo, he continues to compete for multiple positions, playing strongly and firmly in the battle for a regular spot.
Even in situations where the opponent is pressing strongly, he has the ability to hold onto the ball and carry it, and in the 2023 season he played both as a defensive midfielder and a center back. He also showed a desire to take over the midfield position where he could demonstrate his stronger qualities. However, as the new year began, he was considered a valuable member of the final line by coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI. "He is a coach who pays close attention to individual play, so I thought it was important to continue doing it," said Pirom Un-Prasert. His hardworking attitude must have been recognized by the coach.
In Tokyo, where there is a strong "individual" presence at the representative level, one must excel and stand out regardless of age. In this regard, this man has exceptional mental strength.
"I think I was able to assert myself since last season. From now on, I want to listen to other people's opinions more and assert myself less."
During the Miyazaki camp, a practice match was held with Sanfrecce Hiroshima, and on the neighboring pitch was Yoichi Doi, the goalkeeping coach for Yokohama FC and father of Hinata Miyazaki. He was once the legendary goalkeeper who brought the first title to the blue and red team. It was reported on social media that he was told to "go over there", but it may be thanks to his father's strong heart that he has grown into the strong and resilient Kanta today, shaped by his childhood environment.
In that Hiroshima match, Kuryu MATSUKI received the final pass from a set play and scored a goal with his foot, bringing victory in the first and second training matches. He has a strong image as a strong header, but also possesses dexterity. In addition to fulfilling multiple roles, he has a multifaceted ability which is attractive.
"I think it's good to be able to play both center back and other positions, so that when someone gets sent off, it's still good. That's my strength, so I want to develop the ability to play well in both positions."
Number 32 with infinite potential. The story as a professional player has just begun. Inheriting the club's bloodline from the academy, and DNA inherited from his father. Kanta DOI will continue to weave the dream of the blue and red for two generations.
Text by Wataru GOTO (Freelance Writer)
