Strengthened commitment to scoring in the first year as a professional
Using the frustration experienced from the ejection as a springboard
MF 38 Soma ANZAI
Every person and player has a story. '2024 PLAYER’S REVIEW' introduces all the blue and red warriors who fought through the 2024 season, one by one. What thoughts did they carry as they went through the season? Confidence, a sense of achievement, challenges, joy, regret... Reflecting on this season's battles through the words of each player.
Soma ANZAI, who signed a professional contract without waiting for graduation, officially became a member of the blue and red team this season. He made an immediate impact by coming on as a substitute in the league opener, and from the two consecutive matches in April at National Stadium, he established himself as a starter on the right wing. Using the frustration he experienced from being sent off in an important game as motivation, he continues to grow and strengthen his desire to contribute to the team's victories. He is particularly focused on tangible results represented by numbers. With his versatility to play as a side back, he is increasing his presence, and he reflects on the sense of achievement and challenges he felt in his first year as a professional.
Whether to dual-register with Waseda University using the JFA/J-League Special Designation Player System, or to sign a professional contract with Tokyo. The decision to choose the latter during the camp leading up to the start of this season has directly contributed to Soma ANZAI's rapid growth and acquisition of playing opportunities.
At the start of the season, he was on the borderline of making the bench. As his ranking shifted between being a starter or a substitute, he began to have more opportunities to be in the starting lineup following his performance in the National back-to-back matches, which he himself described as an "unforgettable event." He participated in almost all matches, including cup competitions, even during consecutive games, showcasing his ironman qualities.
"Since I started in a special way with a formal joining a little late, rather than imagining it as I had envisioned, I was always conscious of just continuing to work hard in the moment in front of me. I believe that the results of that have led to who I am now."
Even with the change in position, the tension remained. The tension shifted from whether or not to make the team to whether or not to achieve results in the match. With high energy, they ran across the pitch with abundant physical activity.
However, even the tough Anzai had two breaks. The first was during the Meiji Yasuda J1 League Sec. 8 match against Tokyo Verdy, where he received a red card in the first half, and he was unable to play in the following Sec. 9 match against FC Machida Zelvia due to a suspension. The second was when he suffered a facial injury during the Sec. 28 match against Kyoto Sanga F.C.
"Regarding the Verdy match, I felt the harshness of this world. I realized that I was still too naive. I was made to feel that I did not have the ability to stand in such a traditional match... The moment when I gave away the penalty kick was also a significant learning experience for me. The injuries occurred during a time when I was frequently coming on as a substitute, and I believe there were definitely areas where I was not fully committed. I think that the consequences of that came back to me in the match against Kyoto. Even though it was an external injury, I perceive it as something that happened for a reason. It was an event that made me reflect on my daily efforts, and it has become a valuable lesson for the future."
However, the frustration experienced from the suspension was eased by participating in the subsequent matches of the YBC Levain Cup 2nd Round and the J1 Sec. 10 match against Albirex Niigata. Regarding the injury, a rapid recovery was achieved, allowing for time to think and refresh. Although there were setbacks, they were transformed into opportunities for growth through a mindset of turning crises into chances.
The remaining challenge is indeed scoring goals. The phrase, "As long as I am playing in the forward position, I must deliver results," had become a habit of mine.
"As a winger position, I still feel it's not enough, and I have to deliver results where I'm given the opportunity. I think I still have a long way to go."
Win and tighten your helmet's strings. Maintaining a strict attitude towards oneself, Soma ANZAI will blow through like the wind, no matter where.
Text by Katsu Goto (Freelance Writer)
