Yuto Nagatomo (長友 佑都)
After a string of great performances at the World Cup, Japan's first choice leftback will be moving to Italy to prove his merit.
Pre-Cesena:
Nagatomo is one of the quickest players to establish himself in Japan. After failing to gain the attention of scouts he decided to play at a University where he established himself as one of the best prospects in Japan. After leaving Meiji University he signed with J1 side FC Tokyo. It was during the 2008 season that Nagatomo showed his quickness and stamina along with some fierce offensive ability. After 3 seasons in the J-League Nagatomo established himself as one of the best fullbacks in the league. It was during the 2008 season that he received his first call-up into the national team in a match against Syria.
Present:
Nagatomo, as expected, was the starting leftback for Japan in the 2010 World Cup. Despite playing several games as right back for his club FC Tokyo, Nagatomo showed no signs of losing his ability at the position of leftback. He impressed by supporting Japan's lack luster offensive and showing calm and collective defense in the face of some of the best attacking players in the world.
Future:
Nagatomo will face the tough challenge of playing in an extremely physical league. The key to his success will be his ability to adapt to much bigger and stronger players than he is used to in Japan. The fact that he is playing for a lower tier club could help him mentally because the expectations will not be as high. Another aspect that will play to his advantage is the fact that this will only be a loan move. If it doesn't work out as expected he can always come back. This is an intriguing move because Nagatomo will be the first Japanese defender to ever play in Serie A.
Pre-Cesena:
Nagatomo is one of the quickest players to establish himself in Japan. After failing to gain the attention of scouts he decided to play at a University where he established himself as one of the best prospects in Japan. After leaving Meiji University he signed with J1 side FC Tokyo. It was during the 2008 season that Nagatomo showed his quickness and stamina along with some fierce offensive ability. After 3 seasons in the J-League Nagatomo established himself as one of the best fullbacks in the league. It was during the 2008 season that he received his first call-up into the national team in a match against Syria.
Present:
Nagatomo, as expected, was the starting leftback for Japan in the 2010 World Cup. Despite playing several games as right back for his club FC Tokyo, Nagatomo showed no signs of losing his ability at the position of leftback. He impressed by supporting Japan's lack luster offensive and showing calm and collective defense in the face of some of the best attacking players in the world.
Future:
Nagatomo will face the tough challenge of playing in an extremely physical league. The key to his success will be his ability to adapt to much bigger and stronger players than he is used to in Japan. The fact that he is playing for a lower tier club could help him mentally because the expectations will not be as high. Another aspect that will play to his advantage is the fact that this will only be a loan move. If it doesn't work out as expected he can always come back. This is an intriguing move because Nagatomo will be the first Japanese defender to ever play in Serie A.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteI really like your blog... I'm a dutch VVV-fan and I like Japanese football.
Do you place bets on J-League matches at the bookies? I think you can make a nice profit. Maybe we can exchange bets (I tip dutch football and other competitions)? Leave a comment please :)