In 2023, player Yuki Honda transferred from Kyoto Sanga to Vissel Kobe.Despite his height of 173cm, which is not particularly large for a defender, he never loses out even when up against robust forwards.Last season, they participated in 32 league games and supported the team from the rear.While showing a shy side by saying, "I'm bad at speaking," his words to children who aspire to be soccer players, among other things, convey a strong will in every utterance.

——Looking back at the last season, can you tell us about the factors behind Honda’s success?

Two years ago, my contract with Kyoto Sanga had expired, and as I was over 30 years old, I thought it would be difficult to find the next team. Just when I was thinking that, Vissel Kobe approached me. Without any hesitation, I replied, “I will go.” Therefore, I had the feeling of wanting to repay the team, and I approached with the resolve that it would be over if I couldn’t perform well. I think that could be one factor. Of course, I believe the main factor was that my colleagues accepted me.

——Is there anything you were conscious of while adapting to the team after the transfer?

First, during the pre-season camp, I prepared myself to fully understand the tactics and the Manager’s vision to be able to perform well in the matches.I also made it a point to communicate closely with my teammates and try to understand each player’s characteristics and conditions.

——What are your feelings towards your comrades with whom you achieved victory in the J.LEAGUE?

Soccer, to begin with, is a sport that cannot be played alone.It exists precisely because there are companions. In actual games, I was able to utilize the other players around me, and I believe I was also able to play in a way that brought out the best in my teammates. I am extremely grateful to them.

——Vissel Kobe has a lineup of star players who have gained experience playing overseas. How did you manage to express your abilities among them?

“I tried not to think too much about ‘doing a good play’, and instead, I was always striving to play according to the situation at hand. Tactically, with Osako as the centerpiece, we aim for a speedy attack style. The idea was to pass the ball to the forwards as quickly as possible to facilitate an offensive play. I believe that by accomplishing what I could do on my own, I was able to gain recognition from the team.

——Despite his height of 173 cm, which is relatively short for a defender, Honda’s performance at the top level of J.LEAGUE has inspired many children. Do you have any advice for such children?

The size and physical abilities of each individual vary, so it’s not possible to make general statements. What’s more important than that is to never give up, no matter how much you despise losing. I’m not big in stature, and I don’t have any experience as a representative either. There were more instances where I felt frustrated. However, I take pride in the fact that I’ve made efforts without using that as an excuse. That’s why I was able to become a J.LEAGUE player and win at Vissel Kobe. Don’t give up, and work hard towards your dreams and goals. This is something anyone can do, so I hope you’ll keep it in mind.

——What was soccer like for you in your childhood?

I started playing soccer because a good friend of mine played soccer and let me join in. Back then, it was more about having fun kicking the ball around with friends, rather than winning or losing. With just one ball, you can become friends with anyone, and soccer has become a tool for communication. In that sense, I would be glad if soccer could be an important presence for children.

——What aspects do you find appealing about soccer?

Even if you have a small physique like me, there are moments to shine in a match. Sports are often thought to be dependent on physical abilities, but at least soccer is not just about that. For instance, even in a contest with an opponent who surpasses you in height, by changing how you use your body and the timing of your jumps, you can touch the ball first with a header. Furthermore, since it’s a team sport, coordination with team members is also important. No matter how many highly physically capable players a team has, they cannot win if they do not have teamwork. I guess that’s also part of what makes soccer interesting.

——Does the support from Vissel Kobe supporters reach you?

Of course. Especially during games at Noevir Stadium, the entire venue is charged with excitement, and I feel that it has a very good atmosphere. When I hear words of encouragement, I feel a surge of energy, and it’s like having a push in the right direction. Singing the Kobe Anthem after a victorious match also feels good and is moving. I truly feel that this is a stadium where athletes and supporters can unite and fight together. I will work hard this year as well to share victories with all of our supporters.

After leaving Kyoto Sanga, my soccer life, which at one point had almost come to an end. That’s why the 2023 season was faced with strong determination. Strong determination leads to securing a regular spot, and then to the conquest of the J.LEAGUE. “Even if you are not blessed with a good physique, you can reach your dreams with effort.” Honda embodied those words. Heading into the 2024 season at the age of 33, he will continue to support the defense line with his outstanding physical abilities, which are among the best in the team.

INTERVIEW : Yohsuke Watanabe (IN FOCUS)
TEXT : Kodai Wada