With the pride and gratitude of blue and red in my heart, I aim to be the world's best striker from the "bottom of the pack".
FW 28 Leon NOZAWA
Special content introducing the all-blue-red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players thinking and what kind of determination are they approaching the year with as they prepare for the opening? The players' stories, filled with love for the club, thirst for titles, aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill. Last season, Leon NOZAWA, who made his J1 debut and went through a warrior's training. He aims to be the "world's best striker" starting from the bottom. He will continue to work hard and reach new heights without forgetting gratitude and pride.
Wiping away tears and chasing after moments of joy. Last season, I couldn't even participate in the red and white game. Still, I clenched my fist and crawled my way up, and managed to make my first appearance since returning as a substitute in the first match of the 2024 J-League YBC Levain Cup group stage against Cerezo Osaka.
However, they were unable to capitalize on their chances in the match and immediately after, there was a natural overflow.
"I played that game as if it were my last. I was prepared for that, so I couldn't get the result I wanted and ended up crying in frustration."
With that frustration as my motivation, I continued to work hard day by day. My persistent efforts paid off and I made my J1 debut in the 18th round of the 2023 Meiji Yasuda J1 League against Nagoya Grampus. I played in 8 official matches until I was transferred on loan to Matsumoto Yamaga FC in J3 League in August. Even at my training ground, I consistently played in matches and scored 2 goals in 15 games. I have grown a little and am now able to wear the uniform of my beloved club once again.
"I felt the meaning of representing the team and wearing the emblem on my back. I have taken responsibility for playing in the game and have been prepared for each game. I cannot make light plays because I have responsibility for each play. As long as I fight with this emblem on my chest, I cannot be inadequate."
However, even if I come back, my position hasn't changed significantly. "It's still starting from the bottom again, and what I have to do won't change. The shortcut is to do my best and seize the opportunities in front of me. Nothing has changed, and I want to express the joy of being able to play here."
It's another step towards a fresh start. I've been supported by many people until now. I've always repeated to myself, "I didn't come this far on my own. I must not forget to be grateful." The phrases "carry my feelings" and "enjoy any environment" that I often say are life lessons I learned in my sensitive teenage years. That's why I'll get back up no matter how many times I fall. It's because of the encounters that lighten my body and the overflowing words around me.
"I am fortunate to have many people supporting me. I think I have grown a little, so I want to be able to say 'I'm home' with pride, not just in my play and attitude, but also in my results."
3rd season as a pro. Still lacking in achievements. But the goal remains the same, to be the "world's best striker". His personality that pushes everyone forward attracts the ball and makes you want to entrust it to him. That is his greatest talent, I believe.
text by Tadashi BABA (freelance writer)
