It’s impressive to see how far Ashito has made it through the 3 days with Shiba. Shiba has so much experience under his belt that it has become intuitive. It’s a good point to remember that if communication is too obvious that the opposition can also read that as well. Still for Shiba the key is that he is always thinking, but he recognizes it so fast. Which is clearly one of his strongest points as a pro. His decision-making happens so fast.
A thinking reed is the term that has been used since the start of the series. Interesting to note that Shiba was not one who had the ideal size and was the most technical player. The term thinking is that he is always evaluating his options. That is what he needed to zero in on to separate himself from those who were more reliant on their athleticism. Those guys were intuitive, but Shiba was intuitive in a different way. It’s more developed intuition relying on experience. In the pro level the game is so fast which is why Shiba’s intuitive thinking was such a huge asset for Esperion over the years.
As Shiba is dwelling on his retirement and Ashito is to light the spark back up. No doubt Ashito is an intensive player in the good way. Obviously for Ashito looking at Shiba why would he retire as his skills are outstanding? Reminder that a pro can always look back at themselves in their peak. Shiba has always cared for Esperion and he sees what Ashito is at least capable of. The temptation of one more year because if he can work with Ashito it could be huge for Esperion for years to come.
Of course things won’t be as easy for Ashito because Garuja’s criticism was on point. He was too reliant on Shiba. Of course it was only 3 days and the showcase that both Ashito and Yuuma provided was beyond their expectations for them.
Still Garuja has high expectations for both Ashito and Yuuma. He mentions beating Barcelona as their next goal. As they are one of the kings in the world of soccer. It gives Ashito a more reasonable goal to showcase himself as he wouldn’t be given time to practice with the senior team again anytime soon. It will be good to see both Ashito and his youth teammates coming together for what will be a tough match.
Not a huge surprise to see Kuribayashi want to play against Barcelona. Though the reason is less about his inspiration for the game of soccer, but rather the opponent. Who is Daiman Kant the man who even far exceeds Kuribayashi? Curious to see what his skills are that separate him from even Kuribayashi.
