The start of the chapter offered an interesting perspective through the eyes of Yuri. In Barcelona it can be very ruthless very much compared to Japan. We see through this manga that Ashito and the first years climb up the ranks of Esperion together. In contrast the environment is very cutthroat for Barcelona youth. Yuri is essentially cutting off his friend who supported him throughout the years. This more than likely is what Fukuda does not want Japan imitating. This is basically treating soccer as a job rather than a sport.
For Fukuda he wants to keep the pureness and fun with Japanese soccer. The tears that Yuri sheds show how heartbreaking this decision was for him. It’s the path he was forced to take if he wanted to keep up in Barcelona soccer. We can see the youth players on Barcelona are still pressured to showcase their skills.
The adjustment for Ootomo is precisely what Esperion needed because it goes from the very defensive approach to a more dynamic. Ootomo is the classic character who lacks confidence but understands what he has to do. It’s different from Ashito with his vision. Ootomo’s goal is to support his teammates and not to have to make the big plays. But it is because of him that players like Ashito and Kuribayashi can shine. Every team needs selfless players like them. He is a genius in his own way.
To state how incredible of a player Demian Cant is just comes from the presence he brings. As a forward even the best of Esperion’s defenders struggle to match up to him. He is a monster in all aspects of his game. The white tiles from Barcelona’s POV showcase this. There were gaps they could take advantage, but with a player like Demian those holes are basically gone. Their coach raises the point of their South American talent as we know physicality they are on a different level from Japan. The fact that even Fukuda is blown away is there any hope for a comeback?
