Tomoaki Makino, a former player of Vissel Kobe, attended the Rakuten SUPER MATCH held at the Japan National Stadium on October 21st.Even after retiring from active duty in 2022, he continues to watch over as a commentator. I wonder how the team that made a significant leap this season appears in his eyes.So, what is the future of sports as envisioned by Mr. Makino?

Mr. Makino, who has played 38 times as a representative of Japan and won the Asian Champions League during his time with Urawa Reds, is known as one of Japan’s leading defenders.Despite being a center back, his daring rushes to the front line and ability to score goals were impressive.With his inherently cheerful character, he not only uplifted his team and supporters, but also won the love of many people, including not just soccer fans.About a year since retirement.As a commentator, there are frequent opportunities to interact with Vissel Kobe.We asked Mr. Makino, who knows both the inside and outside of the team, about the secret of this season’s strength, the outlook for next season, and the potential of soccer and sports.

The state of the kick-in ceremony held before the match.

――How do you perceive the strength of Vissel Kobe this season, Mr. Makino?

Although we struggled and ranked 13th in 2022, it feels like that experience is being put to good use.I sense that each player is able to nourish themselves through their failures, and possess a strong desire for the title.I believe the presence of veterans is extremely significant.Without compromising from practice, diligently work hard, and do not shy away from hard work even in a game.It seems that young and mid-career players are getting inspired by the sight of such veteran players.

――Looking ahead to the next season, what aspects are you focusing on?

Considering that this season is being supported by veteran players, I believe the team’s maturity will increase.On the other hand, there is no doubt that other teams will intensify their strategies against Vissel Kobe.Not only veteran players, but also the fresh strength of young and mid-career players must be demonstrated more, otherwise, I think the next season will be a tough battle.

――So, you’re saying further changes are necessary

That’s right.This season, the team has started to play a fast, vertical style of soccer centered around player Osako. However, when the opposing team develops countermeasures, it’s crucial whether they can prepare a second or third option.In that sense, I’m looking forward to the potential of the new player.

――Today, the Rakuten SUPER MATCH is being held at the Japan National Stadium. What kind of impact do you think such events have on the team and fans?

Firstly, the ability to play games in an unusual, festive-like atmosphere can be a source of motivation for the players, and for the fans as well, I feel it can become an opportunity to purely enjoy soccer.Moreover, the game is at the Japan National Stadium, a representative stadium of Japan. So, the significance of being able to play there is also great, isn’t it?

――What is needed to make more people like Vissel Kobe?

I believe that the wonderful aspect of Vissel Kobe is their active efforts to involve new supporters, similar to today’s Rakuten SUPER MATCH.Sometimes setting off fireworks, and at times, trying to create an atmosphere by dimming the lights.This team is prominent in the J.LEAGUE for its speedy initiatives. I feel that if they continue to take on unique strategies that other teams do not, this could attract more fans and serve as a gateway to increase their fan base.

――If it were up to you, Mr. Makino, what kind of event would you like to organize?

Since I have a pet, I would like to do an athlete’s entrance with my pet.I believe many teams are doing the escort kids program, and I would love to do that with pets too.Overseas, pets are considered as part of the family, and such initiatives are also being implemented.There are quite a few people who can’t go to the stadium because they have pets, so it would be fun to have an environment where the whole family, including pets, can enjoy soccer, wouldn’t it?

――Rakuten Group has adopted the concept of “Powered by Sports. Playing for All. A BETTER FUTURE TOGETHER” as a guideline for its initiatives. What do you imagine from this word?

Not only Soccer and Baseball, but also Rugby, I truly believe that sports can brighten up Japan and have a positive impact on children.This year, I too have transitioned from playing soccer to conveying its appeal. Like these words suggest, I would be happy if I could become a part of creating a better future.In a society where the birthrate is declining, it is a significant issue to raise the children who will carry the future in a good environment, so we want to create a society where they can experience sports, even a little.

――Among the numerous sports, what is the unique charm of “Soccer” as perceived by Mr. Makino?

It’s a place where the play never stops.For instance, in Baseball, there are offensive and defensive changes, and in Rugby, the clock may stop, but in Soccer, it essentially does not stop.As long as the clock is ticking, the flow of the game won’t stop.Every sport has its own charm, but the one with a fast pace that never bores the spectators is unique to soccer.I would like to convey such interesting aspects.

On the day, a photo booth was set up outside the stadium, where you could have a simulated experience of taking a two-shot with a Vissel Kobe player. Mr. Makino also experienced it.

TEXT : Kodai Wada PHOTO: Teppei Hori INTERVIEW: Yohsuke Watanabe (IN FOCUS)