Q: Please tell us about the response to trying out the new style of football. Also, what stage do you think the penetration of that style is at?
A, the ball possession rate is definitely increasing, and the struggling part now is the final finishing in the attacking third. The team hasn't been getting results as a whole, but we have been gradually improving in training. However, I think we can only obtain it by winning through the experience in the matches. The confidence gained there will definitely contribute to the team's growth, so although we are currently struggling at that stage, I feel that the team is growing while repeating trial and error.
Q: I think there are various reactions regarding the recent match results, but do you feel a sense of accomplishment in seeing what we are trying to do taking shape?
A, the ball possession rate is really improving, and I feel that it is completely different from last season. On the other hand, as a forward player, I still feel frustrated that I can't win and can't score goals, so there is a little bit of irritation there.
Q, in the final part of the breakdown, I feel that we can see the team trying to make use of the players' strengths, such as the speed of Ryo Nagai.
A, personally, I want to increase the number of scenes like the one where I assisted Ada (Adailton) in the match against Kobe. If the whole team can share that, it becomes the biggest chance when we push the ball that deep. Defenders can usually react to just fast crosses, but balls like that are actually more difficult. If we can improve that accuracy both individually and as a team, the number of goals will probably increase. After that, we need to expand the ways we carry the ball up to that point and broaden our options. It’s gradually being studied, so while increasing our range, I want to focus on results and continue like this in the second half of the season.
Q: Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA has mentioned wanting to increase attacks through the center. Given that there have been many attacks from the sides, is the intention to increase wedge passes that connect to the front line through the center?
A, there is that change, and also tactical aspects, so it’s hard to say clearly, but initially we avoided passes through the center. However, as everyone has grown, the demands have also increased. By improving that accuracy and being able to attack from both the sides and the center, I think we will level up even more.
Q, starting from the January camp, I feel like the phase has improved a bit recently, do you feel a sense of growth on the pitch?
A, initially it was mainly building up from a low position, but now we are coming up with ideas in the middle, front, and final finishing stages.
Q, is the finishing part the key point for the second half?
A, not only in terms of cooperation, but personally I think I need to shoot more. If I don't increase the number of shots there, it will still be like Adai (Adailton) and it will become a goal, and it will also become a chance with loose balls, etc. If someone has scenes like that and shakes it, then the way we approach will probably change, and other players will become open, so I feel that we, the front line, need to shake it and go.
Q: In the second half, as a player, do you want to strengthen your awareness of scoring goals a little more?
A, yes. I think I could shoot a little more. Since there is a team concept, we also have to value possession of the ball, but I feel that if the forwards don’t take shots, the team’s momentum won’t build. Sometimes, because we are too careful, there are chances where we could shoot but don’t, and instead try to assist. So, I want to be a player who shoots decisively and can create some kind of change.
Q: Both in the first half and in terms of results and content, there seems to be a dilemma. What are your thoughts on achieving both aspects for the second half?
A, we have to accumulate points. We are currently in the middle, so we need to earn points to move up. We have to continue challenging ourselves while focusing on the results.
