The 2026/27 season is finally about to begin. Under the guidance of Head Coach Myojin ( Tomokazu MYOJIN ), we have been able to make good preparations as a team. While continuing the high-pressing style of football that we worked on during the special season, we have also started to develop new elements, such as having the wingers provide width during attacks and being able to flexibly change our playing style according to the individual strengths of the players. Having overcome so many consecutive matches during the special season, I feel that the entire team has become tougher. With that confidence in our hearts, we will concentrate on the fight and aim to win the match in 90 minutes, with everyone, including the players who come on as substitutes, contributing.

Speaking for myself, I've been in rehabilitation since the ACL2 final, but I was able to play for a limited time in two practice matches right before the season opener, and I'm back in a condition to be with everyone for the opening match. Now it's just a matter of improving my condition as I play matches. When I'm on the pitch, I don't make excuses about the heat or my condition, and I give it my all, so I just need to show that on the pitch.

With the appointment of new Head Coach CHO Kwi Jae , Urawa Reds should have a fresh feel due to the significant changes in their lineup, and I think they will be thoroughly implementing pressing from the front and hard work. The player we are most wary of is Matheus Goncalve Savio(MATHEUS SAVIO), whose strengths are his sharp dribbling, passing, and shooting. Of course, we have to be conscious of not letting him get the ball easily, but before that, we want to focus on playing our own style of football properly, execute it thoroughly, and concentrate on winning.

Looking back, the home game against Urawa in the 2025 season is the match where I scored my first goal for Gamba, and it's a game that I remember as a turning point where I started scoring more goals and "gained momentum." I think that if I can score again this time, it will give me momentum again. But more than that, I want the team to win. With the ACL playoffs coming up after the Urawa match, I absolutely want to win and move on to the next stage, and I want to win both of these matches no matter what to get the team into a good rhythm!

Since the new season started, I've heard from the club that many people have bought my jersey. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to repay the expectations of so many people with results. This season, I will fight passionately to deliver three points for everyone. Thank you for your support.