Ace Striker.It is the protagonist that carries the highlights of drama created by the sport called Soccer, its matches.The magnitude of expectations to be met is immeasurable, in proportion to the spotlight one receives more than others.Yuya Osako, as a representative of Japan, has participated in the Soccer World Cup twice. After playing in the German professional soccer league "Bundesliga", he is now entering his third season with Vissel Kobe.I want to know the source of his strength, the reason why he has been able to keep producing results while warding off such pressures time and time again over the years.

Yuya Osako is a pure striker.

“Scoring is the best part, and if you score, you become a hero.”Since we can score points for the team’s victory, I only feel a sense of fulfillment in doing so.”

When scoring a goal, when the team wins, when everyone is sharing the joy, all the tough training and worries up to that point are blown away by the overwhelming joy.However, on the other hand, if you don’t score points, you can also become the target of criticism.

“I don’t care about that.”

Osako, the player, conveyed those words not in a careless manner, but with a strong will.

“I’ve really gotten to the point where I don’t care about that at all.”

As an ace, as a striker, they bear the responsibility for the results and are exposed to criticism.But there’s no need to become pessimistic about that voice.

“I’m simply thinking about how to score points. There are times when it’s still not possible, and in those cases, it can’t be helped. I believe it’s about how much we can improve by the next time, and while trial and error, finding ‘this’ within myself and then facing the next match. So, I’m properly compartmentalizing and doing it.”

He told us that his current mindset was greatly influenced by his decision to cross the sea and play in Germany in 2014.Overseas, results are everything.No matter how dedicated one’s play is, as a striker, if you don’t deliver results in the form of goals, you won’t be evaluated.It’s a harsh world, but what needs to be done has become clear.

“In the end, it’s about how you contribute to the team. Setting aside such things (expectations and pressure), I’m just thinking about what I want to do on the pitch, and how I can play for the team.”

There are many times when results don’t come out as expected, and things don’t go as planned.There were times in Germany when I experienced difficulties like never before.However, precisely because of that, the joy of scoring a goal is immense.

“It was indeed difficult to excel on the pitch.However, if I could produce results, it would be even more enjoyable than before. You went to Germany and experienced even more of the joy of soccer, didn’t you?”

Therefore, focus on leaving results and concentrate on playing.

In 2022, player Osako was going through a tough time.Joined Vissel Kobe in August 2021.I was expected to play with great anticipation.However, due to injuries leading to absences, we were unable to meet expectations in terms of results, and the team was forced into a tough battle.In that situation, for a long time, I confronted my injury and myself.That reminded me of the thoughts that serve as my own origin.

“I play soccer because it’s fun for me.”

The responsibility that increases with age and experience.The desire to meet expectations is also strong.However, what needs to be done remains unchanged.Instead of looking down, make the utmost effort towards the joy called goal.

“If it wasn’t fun, I would have already quit, Soccer. Indeed, it’s because there’s enjoyment in it that, even at my current age, I still want to keep doing it.”

Just purely, facing Soccer straightforwardly.And, enjoy.The joy of playing soccer is what supports and drives player Osako.

“When the team wins, we can all celebrate together. That is something irreplaceable, isn’t it?”

To savor that moment, I run towards the goal again today, bravely diving into the ball.

“I want to win a title with Vissel Kobe. I want to score points and contribute to the team’s strength.”

At the end of those thoughts coming to fruition, a future where the team and supporters are rejoicing extends.

INTERVIEW & TEXT: Chiharu Abe