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.
A: As a whole team, we have been building up through the camp so far, and I feel we are gradually getting into shape. In the game format, there are times when we hold onto the ball, and within that, we are able to take on various challenges. There are also situations where everyone uses their physical strength while maintaining possession of the ball. Very good patterns have increased, but fatigue is also starting to show in terms of stamina.
Q: The timing for player Hian to break through from behind has improved, and the ball is coming out well.
A: We have been able to accumulate good practice, and breaking behind the opposing defenders is one of my strong playing styles, so I have talked with various players and it has permeated throughout the entire team. Of course, being able to express my strong plays is a good thing, and I believe it also benefits the team.
Q, a new challenge has also begun.
A: We have also started working on things we hadn’t focused on much until now. There have been good results from that, and I believe even better outcomes will emerge as we increase our level of maturity. I think we have players who can handle anything, including various options.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
