The "face" of the Japan national team changed the mindset
A young goalkeeper who has grown from a youth to an adult
GK 41 Taishi Brandon NOZAWA
Special content introducing the all-blue and 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 club love, thirst for titles, aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill. Last season, Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, who returned from two years of training, was met with a sudden and drastic change that even he was bewildered by. Returning from a loan, securing a regular position in Tokyo, and being selected for the Japan national team for the first time. What did the young guardian feel and how did he evolve during this process? We followed his current position as he raised his awareness, saying, "If I want to aim higher, I have to change my daily life."
After finishing the battle of the AFC Asian Cup and returning to Kodaira, the expression of the young guardian was refreshing. Although there was no opportunity to wear the Rising Sun on the pitch, he joined the team in a state of being greatly inspired by top-level players who play for the Japan national team.
"Both my body and mind feel good. Although I couldn't play in the game due to a slight injury, it was frustrating. However, being able to play with top Japanese players made me realize that I need to do more. It was a time that made me think, 'If I want to aim higher, I need to change my daily life'."
Last season, I spent a hectic time. I returned from a 2-year developmental loan to Iwate Grulla Morioka before the start of the season. After making my J1 league debut in the second half, I quickly grabbed a regular position and ended the season with a breakthrough, and in December, a big surprise awaited me with my first call-up to the Japan national team. I participated in the end-of-year training camp and the New Year's match against Thailand, and was then selected for the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar. I ran through it all without any time to rest. At first, I was a little confused by the sudden change, but now I have a clear understanding of fighting as a "flag bearer" for the Japan national team.
"Last season was a year with many changes, and at first I was surprised myself, but I had time to sort things out in Qatar, and I finally caught up with those changes. I want to continue doing what I need to do without wavering."
The goal of what needs to be done is none other than winning the title in Tokyo. Last season, for the biggest goal that I have always mentioned since I started playing in games, "Until now, I have been thinking about what I can do while saying that I want to win the title, but now I have a clear desire to play in games and win," and the words naturally had a lot of power behind them.
21-year-old who experienced a dense month, had changed from a youth to an adult through his days in Qatar. With the number 41 guarding the goal, Tokyo can rest assured. He has the composure and calmness to make us believe that, which is the ambition of this season.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
