*This content was translated by AI.
Yuto Nagatomo (40, FC Tokyo), a defender for the Japanese national team who will become the first Asian player to appear in five consecutive World Cups, dismissed negative public opinion with strong confidence.
According to Japanese media outlets including Sportini Annex, Nagatomo held a press conference in Tokyo on the 17th, referring to himself as an "air purifier." He said, "I have experience in four tournaments. At the (2014) Brazil World Cup, we lost the first match (against Côte d'Ivoire, 1-2 comeback loss), which lowered our morale and left us anxious. If I had the experience I have now, I would have helped the team move forward. I have a sense of smell for the World Cup. I can use it to purify the stale air."
Born in September 1986, he was included in Japan's 2026 FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) North America World Cup squad announced on the 15th. This marks his fifth consecutive World Cup appearance, following the 2010 South Africa, 2014 Brazil, 2018 Russia, and 2022 Qatar tournaments. This is a historic first not only for Japan but for any Asian player. In the South Korean national team, the record for most consecutive appearances is four, held by Hong Myung-bo, Lee Woon-jae, Hwang Sun-hong, and currently Son Heung-min and Kim Seung-gyu.
Regarding the selection of the 40th-year-old veteran for the World Cup squad, some Japanese fans argued it was "unnecessary." In response, Nagatomo directly refuted this, stating, "It seems there are divided opinions about my inclusion, but by the end of the World Cup, there will be nothing but praise. I will fight with confidence and spirit, captivating not only Japan but the entire world."
Nagatomo began his professional career with Tokyo FC in 2007. He played on overseas stages starting with Italy's AC Cesena in 2010, followed by Inter Milan, Turkey's Galatasaray SK, and France's Olympique de Marseille, before returning to FC Tokyo in 2021. With the Japanese national team, he has recorded 144 caps and four goals, the second-highest in history.
Earlier, Nagatomo became a topic of discussion after shedding tears while watching the announcement of the Japanese national team squad. In a video released by FC Tokyo, Nagatomo maintained a calm expression when his name was called, but when news of a teammate's exclusion was announced, he covered his face with his hands and wept bitterly. Interpretations in Japan varied, with some suggesting he expressed emotion over his own selection, while others believed he was showing regret over his teammate's omission.
Regarding his fifth consecutive World Cup appearance, Nagatomo said, "What matters more than the number is what you leave behind. I feel gratitude and pride, but if we do not win the World Cup, we leave nothing behind. Deep in my heart, the word 'championship' exists. I am the only person in Japan with such a strong and fiery spirit. When the team is running smoothly, it's fine, but when things aren't going well or the atmosphere is poor, my spirit and energy can definitely push the team forward. That is something only I can do in Japan," revealing strong pride.
Meanwhile, Kim Seung-gyu (36), a goalkeeper and Nagatomo's FC Tokyo teammate, attended the press conference that day. According to Sankei Sports, Kim said, "I want to face the World Cup confidently alongside Nagatomo and FC Do Kyo-reul (CEO)." He added, "I have considered retirement. I view this as an extension of my football career."
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*This content was translated by AI.
