[Albert PUIG ORTONEDA Interview]
Q, what is the important thing after a big defeat?
AThe match against Fukuoka turned out to be the worst possible scenario from the start. It is precisely because such developments can occur that soccer is considered a very attractive sport. We focused on three important points in our training leading up to the match against Fukuoka. We made sure to incorporate not conceding a goal at the start of the game into our game plan. We prepared to properly handle set-piece defense and long goal kicks from the goalkeeper. However, we were caught out in that area (which we were cautious about). If we hadn't prepared for that, perhaps such a scenario wouldn't have happened. Conversely, it might be that because we prepared, we were caught out by the opponent's strengths. It's a difficult situation to find reasons for. Regarding the second half, Fukuoka is a team that uses counterattacks as a major weapon, so when they are leading, it becomes a very difficult match for the opposing team. This is because Fukuoka activates their counterattacks after solid defense, creating an expected scenario. Conversely, Fukuoka struggles when they are behind. That's why we aimed for the first goal, but it turned out the opposite. Of course, there were individual mistakes that contributed to the goals conceded. There were injuries among the center-backs, and we were short on players, which led to that kind of match due to various factors. Conceding five goals in one match after only conceding five in ten matches is quite difficult to explain.
Tomorrow will clearly be a match against a team with different characteristics than Fukuoka, so we need to switch our mindset effectively. I believe we can say we are a team that enjoys soccer with the ball. They apply high pressure and aim to dominate the game. In that sense, we can say they are a team with completely different characteristics from Fukuoka. What we need to do this season is to enhance the completeness of our playing style. Even as the characteristics of our opponents change, it is necessary for us to express our playing style in a good way. Our ball possession rate in the match against Fukuoka was high. However, whether it was effective is another question. Looking back now, I think our game plan was on target in the first half. The second goal, which came from our mistakes following the opponent's goal kick, had a significant impact on the match. We had been working on responding to the opponent's goal kicks in training to prevent that, but we ended up conceding from that situation. Sometimes we lose because our game plan is not on target, and on the other hand, we can also lose even when our game plan is on target.
Q, I think Sagan Tosu is a team that plays a style of soccer similar to the one desired by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA, and I have a feeling that it will be an entertaining match.
A, we won't know until we open the lid. While we can predict that it will happen, there are countless factors that can influence a soccer match, so we won't know if the match will be exciting until it actually starts. I think the match against Fukuoka is a typical example of this. In a game where we had extremely few goals conceded and Fukuoka had difficulty scoring, the outcome of Fukuoka winning by a large margin was something no one expected. On the other hand, there was also a scenario where an attacking team couldn't score against us. I believe everyone is expecting a match that will be worth watching tomorrow. However, I think the result and flow of the match will change significantly depending on which team scores first. The recent UEFA Champions League Semifinal Round match between Real Madrid and Manchester City also had a final outcome that no one predicted. Soccer is indeed an unpredictable sport. However, while we focus on each match, we must also look at the team's continuous growth from a broader perspective. What is important this season is to build the foundation of this team. I believe that will lead to the future growth of this club.
Q: What are your thoughts on the decision to line up three Brazilian players in the forward line in the Fukuoka match and their future usage?
A, of course, we have the option of lining up three players in the future. I have seen many comments saying that the defensive pressure from the front decreases when three players are lined up, but I do not think so. As for the part where we concede multiple goals, I do not believe that it is solely because the defense from the front line is not functioning. What is important is finding combinations that bring out the individual characteristics of each player. Furthermore, I do not place importance on nationality. I have proven this during the two seasons I led in Niigata. Just because a player is of Brazilian nationality does not mean we will line up three players.
[Player Interview]
＜Keita YAMASHITA＞
Q, we will have a match against my former team Sagan Tosu. I have been a part of multiple teams before and I think I have had matches against my former teams, but I am the type of person who feels special emotions in such matches.
A, speaking in terms of whether it burns or not, it does burn. However, I am currently a Tokyo player and I have the desire to contribute to the team by earning more points, so it's not that I have any particular feelings towards Tosu that make me burn. Simply put, I will be playing against players I fought with last season, and they also know how I play, so I am looking forward to playing against such a team.
Q: What kind of experiences did you have in Tosu during your career?
A, it was a season where I was able to grow a lot. There was also the challenge of playing in J1 for the first time, and I was able to feel my growth throughout the season. I gained confidence and also realized what I was lacking. It was truly an intense season. I was able to achieve a good number of goals, but that was thanks to my teammates. I gained confidence in being able to score in this way. However, that is because of the team's style, so now I just need to do what is required in Tokyo.
Q, do you have a sense that your first goal in Tokyo is getting closer?
A, I want to score a goal... I think it's something I have to overcome in order to raise myself to the next level. Even if there are things I can't do, I have the desire to try each and every one. I want this match against my former team to be the first step in improving my condition. I want to make it the first game where I can produce goals.
Q, in the Vissel Kobe match, it became a phantom goal, but I was able to shake the net in front of the goal in the form of a diving header, which is typical of player Yamashita.
A, I am very particular about scoring goals, but I also want to run for the team, throw myself into the game, and be a sacrificial player. I think that this kind of wholehearted play is also my strength, so I want to show that first. I believe that if I continue to do that, it will lead to goals. First, I want to focus on what I can do.
Q, isn't there a considerable number of roles required within the current team style?
A, I don't think there are many rules in terms of regulations, so I think it's important to discuss and have a common understanding on the pitch.
Q, in the 5th match of the Levain Cup group stage against Júbilo Iwata, Kajiura's goal was born from Yamashita's post-play. I think it was a result of the common understanding among the players involved.
A, anyone can do that play (laughs). I believe that it is necessary to achieve results, goals, and assists. Even if a good pass is connected, I don't think it will build my confidence. The cycle of results, confidence, and growth is correct, so I strongly emphasize the results.
Q, even if you come on as a substitute, do you feel that you are able to create opportunities to take shots inside the penalty area within the limited time?
A, as a professional football player, I think whether you can seize the opportunities that come and go depends on the individual. In that situation, I want to seize it.
Q, Tosu is a team that has only suffered one defeat this season.
A, I understand that we are a team that is scary to our opponents. Our defensive tactics are very detailed, and it seems that our intensity has increased even more compared to last season. However, I don't feel like we will lose. I understand my teammates who I am playing with now, and if we can stick to our style and fight as a team, I believe we can win. Scoring the first goal is important. By taking the lead, we can progress the game in our favor and I think we can control the game at our own pace.
<Yasuki KIMOTO>
Q: In the previous match, we were defeated by Fukuoka with a score of 1-5, which was the highest number of goals conceded this season. We had been keeping the fewest goals conceded in the league so far, but what do you think went wrong in the Fukuoka match?
A, the bad timing of the two goals conceded in the first half, which handed the flow of the game to the opponent. However, if you look at the content, each player played their role and fought well. I also feel that it was unfortunate that all five shots on target by the opponent resulted in goals. I want to accept that there are times like this in a long season and switch my mindset so as not to carry a negative image.
Q: How do you feel about moving to Tokyo this season? How has it been so far?
I feel that I have been able to showcase my strengths more often than last season, partly because I have become more accustomed to Coach Albert's style of soccer. Tokyo has a bright team atmosphere, and it has pleasantly surprised me in a good way. I feel like I have been able to integrate well with the team off the pitch, and I believe that has had a positive impact on my performance.
Q, how do you feel about the current level of completion of the new style that Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA is aiming for?
A, the coach's standard is FC Barcelona, so the ideal is very high. Honestly, I don't think we will reach a perfect level in this year, but the players must grow anyway. There are many challenges, but we are conscious of being able to produce results in the game as professionals and grow at the same time.
Q, please share your enthusiasm for this match with the fans and supporters.
A, this season, Tokyo has not lost a single game at home. I believe this is the result of everyone creating the best atmosphere at every match. We were defeated in the previous match away, but we cannot allow consecutive losses. With your support, I want to win for sure, so please continue to give us your passionate support this match as well!
