Q: Since the start date, it was the second day of practice participation for the new team. How was the practice after returning to Tokyo after a long time?
A, we didn't practice until the start date. Today, there was a great intensity, such as the fierceness of the ball and the quick transition between offense and defense, and we were able to practice intensely, so it was really fun. It was a practice where I could feel that the team is changing, in a good way.
Q: Do you think the concept of football has changed from last season? Did you feel any signs of it during practice?
It's not just about holding the ball firmly and moving forward, but also about having the driving force to advance and always having the awareness of aiming for the goal. The coach has instilled this in me, so I feel motivated and find it rewarding.
Q: You were absent from the Okinawa camp for activities as a representative of Japan. Do you feel any differences in tactical understanding compared to the other players around you?
In terms of understanding the coach's tactics or implementing them on the pitch, it is true that I am falling behind because I haven't been here for almost a month. Towards the start of the season, I just have to make efforts to catch up through daily practice.
Q, you can't waste a day of practice, can you?
A, not only in practice, but also in meetings, I can incorporate the tactics that the coach intends into myself, and there are many things that can be done not only on the pitch but also off the pitch, so I want to work on that firmly.
Q, with less than 2 weeks until the opening, the atmosphere is finally becoming one of anticipation for the start. Have your feelings changed since returning from the activities of the Japanese national team?
A, in terms of feelings, I have always been able to switch between the national team and my club, and the national team is the national team, and Tokyo is Tokyo, so I am determined to mentally start from scratch and give it my all.
Q: What does Nagatomo want to embody in a team that is constantly changing?
It is necessary to understand the tactics of the coach and it is also important to express them in play. However, at the same time, it is necessary to show one's own characteristics and to be active for the team. If you don't appeal as an individual, you won't be able to play in the game. I want to be able to show my own characteristics firmly within the team's tactics.
