On November 14, Japan will play a friendly match against Brazil in Singapore. The two teams previously met in the World Cup Round of 32 this year, where Japan lost 1-2 to Brazil after being overturned, ending their run in the first round of the knockout stage. Ahead of the match, in an interview video released by a Japanese TV sports channel, Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki recalled the goals conceded against Brazil in the World Cup and spoke about his expectations for facing them again, as well as his life in the Premier League.
How do you feel about playing for Aston Villa in England since the start of this season?
Zion Suzuki: There have been some good aspects, but I’ve also found many areas where I need to improve and must continue to adapt to the Premier League. In this process, I’ve seen what I do well and also discovered my shortcomings. For me, I think it’s been a good period.
How is life in England?
I’ve adapted quite well to life in England. The people around me have given me a lot of support, allowing me to live quite comfortably. I feel like I also have an environment where I can focus on football.
Do you have any favorite places to go?
However, I spend most of my time at the club. The food at the club is also very good, so I’m basically either at the club or at home.
What was the key to your decision to transfer to Aston Villa?
I’ve always wanted to play in the Premier League, and Aston Villa is a team that consistently competes at the top of the league and participates in European competitions. The team has also won championships. So, when I received an offer from this team, I strongly hoped to take on the challenge here. Of course, my strongest desire was still to play in the Premier League. These factors ultimately led to my transfer.
What aspects does Japan need to improve to go further in the World Cup?
I think the most important thing is to improve individual skill. Including my experiences since coming to the Premier League and how it feels to play against truly strong nations, I believe the first step is to grow in these areas. Including myself, everyone needs to improve their individual skill. I think this is something that must be enhanced when playing against those strong teams.
Reflect on the second goal conceded against Brazil in the World Cup.
More than feeling that I clearly touched the ball, I was more frustrated by ultimately conceding the goal. I believe that teams with goalkeepers who can save such shots at the last moment are more likely to advance. As I just said, I should become a goalkeeper who can make saves in such situations, and including this, I need to improve my individual skill. This applies to the Japan national team and also to my club. I believe that truly growing at the club is one way to increase Japan's chances of winning.
What are your thoughts on this rematch against Brazil?
Of course, this isn't the World Cup, and I don't know what the opponent's desire to win will be like. But for us, we lost to them last time, and I believe the next World Cup has already begun. To go further in the next World Cup, we need to consistently achieve good results against these strong teams. So, we are preparing to win. For me personally, after playing in the Premier League and gaining experience, I am also very much looking forward to facing them again.