1/20 Training
On the 9th day of the Okinawa Itoman Camp, two training sessions were held, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. In the morning, the entire team trained at Nishizaki Athletic Stadium, and in the afternoon, the players were divided into three groups, each training with different menus.
During the morning training, Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI particularly emphasized the 'movement of the third player.' In the passing and control drills, he repeatedly shouted "Third player!" to make each player aware of their connections. In the subsequent game-style training, he gave an example of how to move the ball, establishing it as a basic pattern while also trying to draw out alternative approaches by observing the opponent's positioning.
In the afternoon, the players were divided into groups according to their individual conditions and worked up a sweat, concluding the training for the day.
"Curious Questions for the Players"
vol.2 Kento HASHIMOTO
A project where we ask questions gathered from the 2026 season OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP members directly to the players, titled "Curious Questions for the Players." This time, the focus is on Kento HASHIMOTO, who wears the blue and red number 18 jersey. We conducted a direct interview with him on intriguing questions.
* Please note that some of the questions we received have been edited or revised for formatting reasons. Thank you for your understanding in advance.
Q: There are now two players named Kento Hashimoto. How do you distinguish between them? (Handle name: Oyanan)
A: We call them Hashi and Kento, but since it varies depending on the person, I’m still a bit confused (laughs).
Q: What do you think is important to overcome high walls and difficulties? (Handle name: Momonga)
A: That’s a difficult question... What I value is to keep doing the obvious things as they should be done. The power of persistence and the need to constantly challenge yourself—there are various ways to make an effort. I always think about challenging new things, incorporating various elements, and growing.
Q: Do you have any pre-match routines or superstitions? (Handle name: Ginny)
A: I used to have quite a few, you know. But after going overseas, there were things I could and couldn’t do, so I’m not that strict about it anymore. However, on match day mornings, I do take a walk or go for a short run to get my body moving early.
Q: How do you maintain your motivation when training is tough or painful? (Handle name: Otama)
A: I always visualize my goals and the person I aim to become. I believe that enduring hardships and difficulties is necessary to reach that point.
Q: Is there a team you dislike facing as an opponent? (Handle name: Ringo)
A: I guess it would have to be the Kashima Antlers. I always have the impression that their unique stadium atmosphere and their energetic style of play give us a hard time.
Q: Your sliding tackles look cool. Do you specially incorporate them into your regular practice? (Handle name: Yasha Kamo-san)
A: I think they come out more during matches. My characteristic is that I seriously go after the ball right in front of me, and as a result, I try to take the ball by stepping forward even just one step earlier or stretching my leg a little more. The more my emotions rise, the more my foot moves forward.
Q. How do you spend your days when there are no matches? (Handle name: Doradora Tokyo)
A. I spend my days off with my family. I play with my children. I’m hardly ever at home. I often go out with my family, moving my body and playing together with my kids.
FOCUS ON - Today's Shot -
The official photographer selected this shot for today’s 'FOCUS ON.' Yuto NAGATOMO aims to become the first Asian player to participate in five consecutive FIFA World Cups, with the upcoming tournament this summer. Beyond the steady, step-by-step days he has accumulated, the dream stage he envisions awaits. He will turn 40 this September. No one knows what results lie ahead for the man who has continuously stored up reasons to keep running in his challenge. Even so, NAGATOMO’s daily life, spent resisting the effects of aging, will continue this season as well.
A Moment of Rest
On the 8th day of the Okinawa Itoman Camp, everyone spent their day off in their own preferred places.
Some groups went out for sauna activities, while some players enjoyed sightseeing. There were also players who went to meet their families and former teammates.
They each healed the fatigue from the camp in their own ways and recharged their energy to prepare for the second half of the camp.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
