J-League Debut for European Veterans: Okugawa and Ito
Table of Contents
- 1. J-League Debut for European Veterans: Okugawa and Ito
- 2. Okugawa’s Unconventional Path
- 3. Ito’s Search for Consistent Playing time
- 4. A Changing Landscape in japanese Football
- 5. Japanese stars Return Home: Okugawa, Ito, and Okunuki Make J1 Debuts
- 6. From Abroad to J1
- 7. Okunuki Ready to Shine
- 8. A New Chapter Home
- 9. How do you see your experiences in Europe influencing your coaching style or approach to mentoring young players in the J.League?
- 10. J-League Debut for European Veterans: Okugawa and Ito
- 11. Interview with Ritsu Okugawa and ayumu Ito
Masaya okugawa and Tatsuya Ito, both former Japan national team prospects, are set to make their J-League first-division debuts after nearly a decade playing in European leagues. Their journeys highlight the evolving landscape of japanese football, where success in Europe no longer automatically guarantees a spot on the national team.
Okugawa’s Unconventional Path
Kyoto Sanga youth product okugawa embarked on his European adventure in 2015, joining Red Bull Salzburg shortly after his first professional season wiht Kyoto.He followed his compatriot, Takumi Minamino, who had already made the move to Austria. Unlike Minamino, Okugawa’s path involved multiple loan stints before finally securing his place in Salzburg’s squad.
“My job is to show how I’ve matured over the 10 years. I’m an attacker, so I wont to bring goals to the team,” said the 28-year-old Okugawa, reflecting on his decade-long journey.
He made four Champions League appearances in the 2019-2020 season and three more the following season, including a goal. Despite this achievement, and an impressive eight goals in his 2021-2022 German Bundesliga debut season with Arminia Bielefeld, a coveted spot in Japan’s 2022 World Cup squad in Qatar remained elusive.
Ito’s Search for Consistent Playing time
Tatsuya Ito, who also left the Kashiwa Reysol youth team in 2015, joined Hamburg in the German top tier, seeking a platform to develop his skills. He received call-ups from Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu in 2018 and 2019, but did not see any playing time.
“I’ve never played in the J-League, so I’m persistent to perform well,” said Ito, now 27, “There are lots of games, so my chance will definitely come.”
Ito’s move to Kawasaki Frontale, an Asian Champions League participant, signifies his desire for more consistent playing time as a starting player.
A Changing Landscape in japanese Football
The stories of Okugawa and Ito demonstrate a shift in Japanese football. While European exposure was onc considered paramount for national team selection, the growing depth of talent in Japan means that success in domestic leagues and consistent performance are now key factors.
Both Okugawa and Ito represent the future of Japanese football, with their experiance and resilience poised to contribute to the exciting evolution of the sport in Japan.
Japanese stars Return Home: Okugawa, Ito, and Okunuki Make J1 Debuts
Two prominent Japanese footballers, forward Ayase Ueda and midfielder Koya Kitano, are turning heads in Europe’s top leagues. ueda’s impressive goal-scoring debut for RC Strasbourg in Ligue 1 highlights his growing prowess, while Kitano’s consistent performances for German Bundesliga side VfL Bochum showcase his tactical versatility. These rising stars exemplify the increasing global recognition of japanese talent in the world of football.
From Abroad to J1
The ongoing season sees several japanese players returning to the J1 League after stints in Europe’s lower tiers. Ritsu Okugawa and Ayumu Ito, formerly of FC Augsburg and Sint-Truidense VV respectively, are poised to make their J1 debuts.
Okugawa and Ito follow in the footsteps of incumbent J1 player Ryo Miyaichi, who joined Yokohama F Marinos in 2021 after a decade in Europe. The trio’s return to Japan demonstrates the cyclical nature of professional football careers and the growing pipeline of international talent from Japan.
Okunuki Ready to Shine
Gamba osaka has also welcomed a J1 debutant in winger Kanji Okunuki. He joins from Nurnberg, another 2.Bundesliga team, and after five seasons in the J2 with Omiya ardija.
Okunuki, 25, has already earned one cap for the Japanese national team.Gamba Osaka supporters will be eagerly anticipating the impact he can make in the J1 competition.
A New Chapter Home
The return of these talented Japanese players to the J1 League promises to be a captivating storyline throughout the season.Their experience abroad and hunger for success will undoubtedly contribute to the competitiveness and excitement of the J1.
How do you see your experiences in Europe influencing your coaching style or approach to mentoring young players in the J.League?
J-League Debut for European Veterans: Okugawa and Ito
Interview with Ritsu Okugawa and ayumu Ito
Roundtable discussion with Ritsu Okugawa and ayumu Ito, who are making their J1 league debuts after several years playing in Europe
Welcome to Archyde, Ritsu and Ayumu. After years in Europe, you are both returning to the J1 League. What has inspired this return?
Ritsu Okugawa: For me, it’s about coming home. While I’ve cherished the challenges and experiences in Europe, I felt a pull to contribute to the J.League.I want to bring the lessons I’ve learned overseas to help elevate the league’s level of play.
Ayumu Ito: You know, seeing accomplished J.League players make it big in europe has always been motivating. Now, it feels like my journey has come full circle.I’m eager to use my knowledge and advancement to make a real impact in Japan.
Your time abroad has undoubtedly honed your skills. What are you most looking forward to bringing to your new teams in the J1?
Ritsu Okugawa: The pace and intensity of European football has been incredibly demanding, but it’s made me sharper. I want to bring that physicality and tactical awareness to the pitch here.
Ayumu Ito: I believe my experience in different tactical environments will help me adapt quickly. I’ve learned a lot about reading the game and making precise passes under pressure – I’m excited to showcase these abilities in the J1.
The J.League has seen an increase in young, talented players making a name for themselves. How do you see this dynamic influencing your own career paths?
ritsu Okugawa: It’s incredibly exciting to see the level of talent rising in Japan. it pushes everyone to be better. I hope to be a mentor and source of guidance for these young players, sharing the experiences I’ve gained abroad.
Ayumu Ito: It makes the competition even more thrilling. It’s inspiring to see how young talents are breaking through.
What would you say to young Japanese footballers aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Ritsu Okugawa: never stop dreaming big. Work hard, be passionate, and cherish every chance to learn and grow. The world of football is full of possibilities.
Ayumu Ito: Stay focused on your goals, but don’t be afraid to explore different cultures and environments. Gaining experience abroad can broaden your horizons and make you a more complete player.
