1/26 Training
On the second day of the Okinawa Itoman camp, recovery training was conducted at the accommodation. The players stretched and relaxed their bodies in the accommodation's pool, dedicating time to care.
It has already been about two weeks since leaving Tokyo. The focus of training has shifted more towards match awareness since the second camp, and the signs of fatigue have become more pronounced. The players take a deep breath to release the tension that has built up here and refresh themselves on the day off the next day.
After the break, we will focus on refining the details. From here on, the competition for the starting lineup for the opening match is expected to be extremely fierce. Since one of the goals for this season is to maximize our potential, being included in the opening match roster does not guarantee safety. This competition will continue throughout the season. The intentions of head coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI are evident from various aspects of this camp.
FOCUS ON
The official photographer's selected camp photo project "FOCUS ON." On the second day of the Okinawa Itoman camp, after pool training, this shot captures Baek INHWAN and Hisatoshi NISHIDO conversing in Korean while relaxing in the jacuzzi. Baek has completely warmed up to the other players during this camp. Hisatoshi, who can speak a little Korean, is likely playing a good role as a bridge. On this day as well, he was facilitating private conversations while conveying subtle nuances.
CAMP VOICE vol.13 Marcelo RYAN
The potential of the promising new striker candidate is limitless. This season, Marcelo RYAN, who joined on loan from Sagan Tosu, is filled with surprises in terms of his latent ability. He shakes off defenders with overwhelming speed and powerfully keeps the ball. Moreover, he can shake the net even from difficult positions, leaving his teammates wide-eyed in amazement. I have witnessed such scenes many times during this camp. I spoke with the unfathomable RYAN.
Q: In the second camp, there has been an increase in training in a game format, and we have started to see good plays that utilize Hian's speed and power.
As a team, we have built up to this point in the camp, and I feel that we are gradually coming together. In match formats, there are times when we hold the ball, and within that, we are able to take on various challenges. There are also situations where everyone is using their physical strength while maintaining possession of the ball. While we have seen an increase in very good formations, fatigue is also starting to show in terms of physical stamina.
Q: The timing for player Hian to break through from behind has improved, and the ball is coming out well.
A, I have been able to accumulate good practice, and breaking behind the opposing defenders is one of my strong playing styles, so I have been discussing this with various players and it has permeated the entire team. Of course, being able to express my strong plays is a good thing, and I believe it also adds value to the team.
Q, a new challenge has also begun.
A, we have started to tackle things that we haven't done much of until now. There are good harvests from that, and I believe that if we increase our maturity, even better things will emerge. I think we have players who can respond to anything, including various options.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
