<Albert PUIG ORTONEDA>
Q: How was the camp after it ended?
A: I believe the players have positively embraced the change in playing style, and that was evident again today. Building the foundation is not easy, but I have a good feeling that we have sufficiently begun to establish it. From here on, steady efforts to improve the level of completion will be necessary.
Mistakes are bound to happen in difficult situations. There was a big mistake today that led to conceding a goal, but I don't really mind. There were also mistakes in the attacking phase. Although we created many clear chances in the first half, we couldn't convert them, which can also be considered a mistake in a way. It becomes important to avoid mistakes in both defense and attack. Mistakes that lead to conceding goals are more memorable, but we must not forget the mistake of not converting the clear chances we had in the first half.
In any case, we are currently in the preseason. Over these three weeks, we have clearly demonstrated the direction we want to pursue. However, we are still at the stage where the groundwork has just begun.
Q, it seems like they are seeking simplicity when watching the practice.
A: We are indeed seeking simplicity, and I believe that playing simply is what makes soccer difficult. Generally, people tend to overcomplicate things.
We are trying to build up with the goalkeeper, but we want to keep things simple and ask the goalkeeper to play simple as well. If the goalkeeper can be involved in the build-up in a simple way, it may appear as if the team has completed a complex build-up, but I think that is achieved by continuing to play simple.
In the final third, each player's imagination and creativity become crucial. There is very little a coach can do regarding finishing in front of the opponent's goal.
Q: It seems that you have been fighting with a certain fixed number of members, but is it important to play with the same members in order to build a base?
A, we certainly do not have much time left. Additionally, we need to understand each player's characteristics more deeply within this short period. The opening match is in two weeks. Naturally, we have approached these past three weeks by solidifying the lineup to some extent, but this does not mean it is finalized. I believe this approach is appropriate to enhance the team's completeness. Moving forward, I think we will gradually make adjustments and changes to the members.
I have high expectations for the growth and success of young players. I want to make good use of opportunities such as the Levain Cup to promote the development and achievements of young players.
Q: How does the coach perceive the fact that Nagatomo was unable to participate in the camp to build the base?
A: It is certainly a disadvantage that he is not at the camp, but he is a great player with wonderful experience and quality of play. Therefore, I believe he will adapt to the team's style of play in a short period. Just as he has contributed to the national team with the experience he has accumulated so far, he will also make a significant contribution to Tokyo.
There is no doubt that he is an important player for me, an experienced person with a clear strong personality. He will contribute greatly to us. However, we must treat all players equally, just like him, and it is the duty of the coach to ensure that the players who should perform well actually perform well.
However, I think it is a big plus for us that there are still players like him who are absent but are great players in a sense.
In addition, I am looking forward to the growth and success of young players whose potential has not yet been fully understood. I believe there are hidden gems in the development department. Although I have not been able to see them play yet, I am very excited.
Having competition for positions within the team is a very positive thing.
The fact that there were no major injuries during the camp is also a significant positive factor for us. Thanks to the excellent work of many staff members, we were able to avoid serious injuries and spend the preseason safely.
<Masato MORISHIGE>
Q, what will be necessary to further improve the quality?
A, I think there is no choice but to thoroughly understand what is happening on the pitch during the match and repeatedly practice while being conscious of it.
Q, how do you feel about the penetration of new soccer?
A, without a doubt, I think we have been able to play more smoothly in the second match compared to the first, and even more so in the third compared to the second. Also, we are carefully aligning our understanding of what the coach is asking for in today’s game by reviewing the footage. By continuing this repetition, I believe everyone will be able to visualize the coach’s intentions. Playing matches and analyzing them repeatedly is the easiest way for us to understand.
Q, I play multiple positions even during camp.
A, I’m glad I started out playing a tough position (laughs). Dropping back is easier, but going forward from the back is tough. Things I found difficult in midfield, like team balance and how to move the ball, became clearer when I played one position further back and could see the whole picture. Realizing that the perspective changes depending on the position was a very positive experience during these three weeks of camp.
Q: What points were emphasized during the camp regarding ball possession?
A, we value rhythm and tempo, so when we can move the ball quickly, we do so, and if the opponents are not pressing, we carry the ball by dribbling. Through each match, we have come to understand that it’s actually okay to face forward and turn or to use dribbling. We want to continue refining this kind of decision-making.
<Ryoma WATANABE>
Q: Recently, there have been opportunities to play on both the left and right sides during matches. How do you feel about actually playing in those positions?
A: The view is different on the right side compared to the left side, and the plays I can make also differ, but I will continue working on improving so that I can perform at a higher level while practicing.
Q: How do you feel about your understanding of tactics?
A: There are times when I find it difficult, and there are also things I consider as an added layer beyond what the coach says. I feel that I am relatively quick to understand the coach’s style of football, and from here, I want to continue working on improving the skills and abilities to translate that understanding into my play and make improvements. Also, since full-back is a position where you have to defend, I want to work on that aspect as well.
Q: Originally, you played mostly in the midfield position, but recently you have been playing as a full-back. Do you have any unique strengths or advantages that other players don't have?
A: Probably, compared to players who have only played as full-backs, I lose the ball less often and have a wider field of vision. Including the aspect of tactical battles with opponents, I think these are my strengths.
Q: Do you have any desire to play in a more forward position, despite currently playing mostly as a fullback?
A: Originally, I don't have the desire to play up front. For better or worse, I’m not really sure which position suits me best, so I don’t have any particular likes or dislikes about any position. I just give my all in the position that Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA assigns to me.
Q, do you feel that you are able to quickly take up positions and have a high understanding of the coach's tactics? Is there anything you feel while playing?
A: I can't speak for other players, but for myself, I think that by not overcomplicating things and being able to organize the essence or fundamental aspects of soccer, it leads to playing without hesitation. I want to fully carry out my role.
