[Albert PUIG ORTONEDA Interview]
Q: Shonan is expected to defend from the front line. What measures are you taking?
As a defensive element, there are times when we come forward, but when we are broken through, we tend to lower the block and solidify the defense. It is necessary to break through the press from the front line, but first and foremost, it is important to show our own style of soccer and grow. There are also members who have not been able to participate in the game, so please look forward to it. I hope the players can take advantage of the opportunity to play and compete for positions. We are having good training, and if possible, I want to give playing time to everyone and contribute to improving the team's completion. However, we have to select players. I would like to use many young players and take the opportunity for the next league match.
Q, is it true that there are opportunities for players who have not played in the game to participate?
A, the season has just started, and I want to give all players a chance.
Q, what do you think is the reason for the team's three consecutive victories and accumulated points in the league, considering that the team is still in the development stage?
It is very good that we are able to grow while accumulating points. This season is a season of growth to establish a new soccer style, but we will continue to demand that we play with a focus on winning. To enhance our level of completion, we need to repeat trial and error throughout the matches. I believe that finding areas for improvement from mistakes and preparing for the next match leads to growth. If we can focus on competition and accumulate points while growing, I think it is an ideal process for both the team and individuals. There will be matches in the Levain Cup during the league season. I would like to utilize young players and those who have not had many opportunities to play, but since there are no league matches this week, I plan to make different player selections.
Q, I think Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA has the ability to develop young players, but where do you think the opportunity for growth lies?
A, training is important and, it is necessary to make an appeal and show existence. Then, we will judge whether to use it. You must have the mental strength to express yourself. On the other hand, I think it is the responsibility of the coach if you cannot be used despite being able to appeal and not being blessed with opportunities. Young players are the type to be boldly used, and it is common in this world for teams to gradually change generations. I think it is necessary to use young players as a coach for the club's goals.
Q, Long-time player also participated in the World Cup match.
A, I think we had a good game and played well. It is necessary to play a good game against teams that are physically superior like Australia. The situation will change in the Asian qualifiers and the World Cup main tournament. Personally, I think it would be great if the Japan national team can continue their current playing style. I would be happy to see many players from Tokyo selected and playing in the main tournament.
[Player Interview]
Hirotaka MITA
Q, how do you look back on the Hiroshima match, where you were brought on in the second half and also achieved results?
A, in the sense that I changed the flow of the game, the coach told me I did well. I also think it was good that I was able to achieve results myself, but there were many things the team couldn't do, so I believe there are points to improve.
Q, do you need both technical skills and strength to establish a new style?
A, we have just started a new style this season, and I think it will take time to complete it. However, since we have gathered highly skilled players, I believe there are parts that will go well. The coach also assigns positions that make use of the players' characteristics. He has told us to bring out our individual traits within that framework, so I think each player needs to express their uniqueness on the pitch and play with high intensity.
Q, how are you feeling about the Shonan game?
A, I want to play by getting involved with the ball and moving toward the goal to bring out my strengths. Of course, I am focused on the results, and I will express our style of soccer. As we grow, I believe this will be an important match because we want to win as many titles as possible.
Q, I think Mita is a player who leads the team in the midst of intense competition within the team.
A, becoming a veteran, it is absolutely essential to play for the team, but since this is a world where you cannot survive without achieving individual results, I want to work hard while maintaining a good balance.
Q: What is the difference between a game where the team's build-up works well and a game where it doesn't work well?
A, there were many instances of losing the ball when pressured from the front line. I think it is necessary to improve the accuracy of passing the ball, the quality of support positioning, and to have a shared understanding among the players.
Q: Do you have any points of reflection on playing against opponents with a 3-back and 4-back formation as a midfielder?
A, we have practiced against opponents with a 3-back formation. In the match against Iwata, we were able to keep possession of the ball but could not penetrate the attacking third, and in the match against Hiroshima, we were unable to maintain possession. Since the system changes depending on the opponent, I think it is necessary to adapt and make adjustments accordingly.
Q, the team has accumulated points with 3 consecutive wins in the league.
A: There are parts where we can play the way we want and parts where we cannot. I believe improving our new style of soccer and winning will be interesting for the fans and supporters to watch, so that is what we aim for.
Q, I think your position has changed from the pre-season camp to the start of the season. What kind of appeal did you make?
A: Before the season started, I received the ball as an anchor while setting the rhythm, and I was able to play with high intensity in defense, which I believe led to positive evaluations.
Q, what do you keep in mind during the game?
A, I make sure to pass simply to players facing forward and to connect the ball in a straightforward manner. Decision-making is also important, so I always keep that in mind.
<Keita YAMASHITA>
Q: You joined Tokyo this season. How do you feel looking back on it from the beginning to this point?
A, I think the team has been able to take positive steps toward a new style of soccer. We have won three consecutive league matches, so there is no doubt that we are moving in a good direction. However, on a personal level, I believe I need to produce more results and contribute more to the team’s strength.
Q: How do you feel about your performance so far, player Yamashita, who has started and played the full 90 minutes in both Levain Cup matches?
A, As a forward, I am focused on scoring goals, so it is frustrating that I haven't yet achieved that result. My condition is good, but in matches, there are still areas lacking in coordination with those around me. I want to continue accumulating experience through games and training so that I can score goals in good form as soon as possible.
Q, what kind of play is Yamashita asked for in Albert's possession soccer?
A, there are various things that are expected of me, but the most important is to score goals. This is something I am constantly told and am also very conscious of myself. No matter how, I am working hard in practice with the intention of scoring goals. I believe everyone understands Coach Albert's instructions both in attack and defense. However, I feel that as a team, we need to gain more experience to express those details fully.
Q, please tell the fans and supporters about your enthusiasm for the upcoming Shonan match.
A: I believe that if we don't win here, we won't be able to advance past the group stage of the Levain Cup, so everyone will go out to earn 3 points. To that end, I want to fulfill my responsibility as a forward and deliver results. Personally, I also want to bring out my strengths to contribute more to the team. Thank you for your support!
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