He's on the pitch like a fish in water, full of energy.

Shoya Nakajima was given his first start of the season in the match against Kawasaki Frontale on April 29th, and contributed to the team's first victory in seven games. He moved fluidly and fulfilled his role. He drew out passes in midfield and created the rhythm of the attack. The team's ball possession rate and chance creation rate have visibly improved. Even though he was suddenly given the starting position, those around him seem to understand the movements of the number 10 well. Defensive midfielder Kaito Yasui said with a smile:

"Shoya is just being himself. It's best to let him do things his own way. Everyone around him will adjust accordingly."

The more playing time he gets, the more he shines. He was named in the starting lineup for the match against Kashiwa Reysol on May 6th and showed an outstanding presence. In the 58th minute, with the score at 0-0, he set up Ryoma Watanabe 's winning goal with a precise cross. However, even after doing such a great job, he doesn't say much. He simply said, "Ryoma made a good run into the right place." Magicians don't reveal the secrets in their own words. Magic is meant to be enjoyed by watching. Ayumi Niekawa who has known the naturally gifted technician for over 15 years, speaks thoughtfully.

"He speaks volumes on the pitch, so I think that's good enough for Shoya (laughs)."

They were former teammates on the U-17 Japan national team and have always gotten along well. When they reunited at the Reds after a long time, they started spending more time together. They enjoy drinking Chinese tea and having casual conversations in their private time.

"They both have a unique aura about them, and for some reason, we just get along well."

Even a laid-back partner like him becomes a different beast when he puts on his cleats and steps onto the pitch. The exceptional skills he displays at every turn are truly remarkable.

"Even when watching from the bench during Trial, he's always making a difference."

Matheus Savio, a Brazilian player who could be considered one of the most technically skilled players in the J.League, also holds Nakajima's technical abilities in high regard. He had the experience of playing against him in Europe eight years ago, and says that Nakajima's technique was outstanding even back then.

"When I was still playing in the Portuguese league (at Estrír), I played against Shoya (at Portimonense SC at the time) on the same pitch. I know firsthand how difficult it is to have him as an opponent."

However, when he's on the same team, he's an invaluable asset. When they're on the same wavelength and playing close together, Savio's strengths really come through. He can spontaneously execute intricate passing exchanges and one-two passes to break down the defense.

"Our playing styles are similar, and we have a similar mindset."

Many players are experiencing the "Nakajima effect." For defensive midfielder Hayate Ueki, who supplies passes from deep in the midfield, Nakajima is someone he can trust to receive the ball from. He appears everywhere and calls for passes even in tight spaces.

"When the ball is at his feet, he hardly ever loses it, so I can pass it to him with confidence. The ball really never leaves his feet. That might be a sign of skill, but his ideas are different from other people. He chooses plays that I would never think of myself. When I play soccer with him, it becomes fun for me too."

He moves around freely, but his positioning is exquisite. He stands in positions that trouble the opponent and slips into the field of vision of his teammates with the ball. When center back Kenta Nemoto looks up, he sees the number 10 player standing there.

"We often make eye contact. When Shoya is there, it's easier to make vertical passes. It also allows me to utilize my own strengths. I think the reason I can draw out the ball so well is because I'm positioned in a way that confuses the opposing defenders who are marking me."

He has the image of being an intuitive player who acts on feeling, but it's not just about improvisation. There's a basis for it. If you only focus on one aspect, you'll misunderstand his true nature. He may seem to be focused on his own play, but he's also quietly keeping an eye on those around him. Sota Matsunaga a first-year college graduate who hasn't been involved in Trial lineup much, was grateful for this.

"They often talk to me and teach me a lot of things."

He always maintains a calm demeanor, and it's difficult to discern his true feelings from his words and expressions. Nevertheless, his hunger for football is palpable. The match against FC Tokyo on May 16th will be a showdown against his former club. Without the performance of the number 10, there would be no way to achieve five consecutive wins. No need for any pretentious comments. He will speak volumes on the pitch.

(Interview and text by Masayuki Sugizono)