Breaking Away from the Role of a Counterattack Specialist
New Possibilities Shown by the Brazilian "Master"
MF 70 Jája Silva
This is a special feature introducing all the blue and red warriors taking on the 2024 season. What are the players thinking as the opening approaches, and with what determination are they preparing for the year ahead? The stories of players who hold deep club loyalty, a thirst for titles, a desire to shine, and the roles they must fulfill──Among them is Jája Silva, who joined the team midway through last season. Armed with exceptional speed, he made his presence felt as a super-sub, but the new season sees him unveiling a completely new playing style. Attention is on what kind of impact his potential will have on the team’s future.
The 2023 season will likely be remembered as a disappointing one. The biggest factor was the injury. On October 14 last year, he injured the right anterior fibular head ligament, requiring four weeks of recovery. It was painful to see him training with tape as he gradually rejoined the team. He was finally able to return in the league's final match against Shonan Bellmare on December 3. He played as a substitute for 18 minutes, but a full-fledged comeback had to wait until the start of the 2024 season.
"It was very unfortunate to get injured just as I was gradually fitting in after coming to Tokyo midway through last season. But this new season, I have been able to play without injury, and I’m in good condition. From the first day of training to the end of the camp, I’ve been able to spend time with my teammates continuously, so things are going smoothly in many ways. Since I didn’t have the opportunity to start last season, I want to contribute as a starter this season."
After returning to Tokyo from the camp, Jája smiled and said this. Utilizing his innate speed as a counterattack specialist coming off the bench, he would burst forward, push down the opponent’s defensive line, and put pressure on the opposing goalkeeper. That was certainly one of his strengths. However, it was a role in which it’s hard to say he fully demonstrated his true qualities. On the other hand, this season Jája’s natural soft ball touch and his ideas that take in the overall game situation are coming to life. The charm of the Brazilian “artisan” is now becoming visible.
“I have both the style of breaking forward to receive the ball and the style of receiving the ball and playing it forward,” he said with confidence, suggesting that Jaja’s image is likely to be significantly reshaped in a positive direction.
Regarding the team's performance, he spoke confidently, saying, "It will be a wonderful season," while remaining humble about himself.
"Only God knows whether good results will come or not. I just want to do my best to bring out what I have and contribute to the team. That's all."
There is no hesitation in the fluid attack that moves between the top and right-side positions. Jaja's new potential is also expanding Tokyo's possibilities.
Text by Masaru Goto (Freelance Writer)
