Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I would like to thank everyone that still been following this fic so far. I deeply appreciate all the kudos, support, and encouragement along the way.

After hitting a writer's block and rereading the fic, I concluded that I need to change things from scratch; therefore, after the maintenance, I will delete all the chapters and start from the beginning after the site maintenance. 

Once again, I am grateful to all of you for following my journey writing this fic. This is the rewritten version of the previous fic. 

Chapter Text

Yoichi put the last item into his blue suitcase with a pentagon-shaped logo with the word ‘Blue Lock’ written underneath. After he finished packing up his stuff. He cast a glance at the empty room for the last time. He had spent the last three years living here, in a small and cramped room, but enough for one person. Today is the day he’s going back to Japan. The day he’s been waiting for months.

“Ready to go?”  He sees Michael standing on the threshold. He has waited until Yoichi finished packing to drive him to the airport. Yoichi appreciates that he takes time from his daily practice to escort him.

“Yep, all clear,” Yoichi said, clasping his hand.

“Is that all your stuff?” Michael stared at the suitcase and a blue duffel bag hanging on Yoichi’s shoulder that also bears the same logo as his suitcase.

“You know I don’t own many things.” Yoichi snorts. His luggage consisted only of soccer equipment, a few clothes, jerseys, and a basic hygiene kit. His stay in Bastard München is only temporary, and he doesn’t see the point of hoarding much stuff. He would return to Japan once Jinpachi is ready to present the Blue Lock project to the public.

Several members of Bastard München are already waiting at the entrance; they all came to send him off. When Yoichi first arrived, none of them acknowledged him. To them, he was Michael’s little brother and a lackey that constantly overlooked. He was always excluded from the team’s plays and practices. To survive, he has to prove his worth. Bit by bit, he worked his way into the team, gaining their trust and eventually earning their respect. Now, three years later, they even threw a farewell party for him in the clubhouse yesterday. He can’t deny that he has become quite attached to the team. He will miss them.

“It’ll be lonely without you here.” Ness is the first among them to approach him and hug him. Yoichi is the only person with whom Ness can freely share his passion for magic without getting made fun of. He is also the one that responsible for introducing Ness to the amazing world of anime (In particular Isekai genre)

“I still can’t believe you are still supporting Ego’s insane project. There is no hope for Japanese soccer; you alone won’t make a difference. Those dick cheeses ain’t worth your time. You wasted your life on a hopeless project.” Chided Gesner, shaking his head. Out of all Bastard members, he is the one who opposed Yoichi’s decision to return to Japan the most.

“You know the reason why,” Yoichi chortled, already used to Gesner’s vulgarity as he loaded his luggage into the trunk of Michael’s car. The blue Audi is by far the best thing Michael ever purchased, in Yoichi’s opinion.

“It’s always sad to part with a dear friend, alas, no matter how painful it is, we can’t grow without experiencing sadness; we can’t grow,” Grim said in a dramatic, heart-wrenching tone as he placed his hand over his heart.

“As fleeting as the time we spent, I hoped you’ll never forget us.” Then, to complete the over-the-top act, Grim sank to his knee.

“You know you can contact me anytime,” Yoichi replied flatly, watching his excessive melancholy shenanigans with half-lidded eyes, unamused.

After he finished exchanging farewells with the Bastard München team, and promised to stay in contact. Michael starts the car after Yoichi gets in and drives away.

Yoichi looked back, casting a wistful glance at the place that had become his home for the last three years. He would miss the time he spent here.

Michael grips the steering wheel with one hand, the other fiddles with the radio, choosing his favorite band. Yoichi nodded along to the beat. Rock might not be his favorite, but it’s good enough to uplift the mood.

“If you have a change of heart, you can return here and become an official member of the Bastard München.  I guarantee you’ll get a spot as a starter.” Michael said as he stepped on the gas when they hit the road.

“Thanks for the offer, but I have decided to join the project from the start,” Yoichi said. He is grateful that Michael is looking after him, but he has chosen to participate in the Blue Lock project right from the moment Jinpachi revealed it. “This is the moment we’ve been waiting for. I have to see through it until the end.”

Most of the people he knows display high skepticism about the project when they first hear about it. Some scoffed when he brought it up, few even outright mocked it to his face. They all think Ego Jinpachi is an overachiever, delusional idealist who takes massive gambles on a hopeless project. But even if the world ridicules it, even if nobody expects anything of it, even if people call him crazy for endorsing it, Yoichi decided to stand by his mentor’s side.

“Sometimes, I can’t help but admire the unwavering loyalty you have for that man. Ego is lucky to have a pupil who devoted everything to him.” Michael chuckles. The car shuddered to a halt at the red light. The blonde tapped his finger on the wheel.

“You’re one to talk when you have someone like Ness follow your every step.” Yoichi retorts with a lopsided grin.

Michael rolled his eyes and said. “That was different; we were just role-playing.”

He is probably the only one who thinks that way. It is certainly different for Ness as he regards Michael like an actual master. Everyone else notices that Ness’s infatuation with him went beyond play pretend or even normal friendship; it’s borderline obsessive as the redhead readily confronts anyone who dares to disrespect Michael.

Also, it’s not like Michael didn’t understand the reason Yoichi is very attached to his mentor.

Jinpachi came into his life shortly after his parents passed away and decided to adopt him. Ever since, Jinpachi has been his legal guardian and sole benefactor. He was the first and the only one who noticed him, recognizing his worth and giving him purpose to strive for. In return, Yoichi vowed to become the Ideal Egoist to carry on Jinpachi’s dream and fulfill the future he envisioned.

“We will eventually share the same field once again. Next time we reunite, it’ll be in Blue Lock.” Yoichi said, determined.

“If the project advances that far,” Michael remarked as he made a turn to the highway.

“It will,” Yoichi answers without an ounce of hesitation.

On the horizon, they see their destination, the airport terminal. The bustling airport is packed with people wandering with suitcases. There is an announcement of a plane that is about to depart from the microphone, and several people are rushing toward the security line.

“It’s almost boarding time,” Yoichi said, checking his watch just as Michael pulled over to the drop-off zone.

“Alright, I guess it’s time for goodbye, lil bro.” Michael mushing his hair fondly, ruining the effort Yoichi put to shape his bang to a perfect ‘V’ sign. In response, Yoichi lunged and wrapped his arms tightly around the blonde. “We will see each other again soon.”

“Take care of yourself there, Yocchan,” Michael said as he pulled away to look at him for the last time.

“You too, Mihya.” Yoichi flashed him a wide grin before exiting the car.

Out of everyone, it was the hardest to bid farewell to Michael. Yoichi first met Michael when he was still in grade school. Noel Noa has brought him along to Japan. At the time, Michael’s talent in soccer was just recently discovered, and Noa took him to ask for Jinpachi’s help in training the boy in soccer. Over the years, they have grown close, and their relationship has further deepened during the time he spent in Bastard München. Michael becomes sort of an older brother figure and sort of an extended family to him.

Over the last twenty-five years, since the Japanese team became a regular participant in the World Cup yet they haven't been able to win even once.

Nobody ever had much expectation of them ever winning a World Cup. The greedy board member of JFU only views soccer as a means to make money. If they kept the same pattern, they would never have a chance to win.

Jinpachi believes the root of the cause is the lack of ego in the Japanese team that leads them to suffer one defeat after another. Therefore, he comes up with a solution by creating the Blue Lock project. A system to produce players who can lead the country to win the World Cup. His main objective is to reform the core of Japanese soccer. He holds a deep disdain toward altruism in Soccer and is convinced that the way of thinking, playing for the sake of others, is the main reason that holds back Japanese players.

That was also the primary reason Jinpachi sent Yoichi to train overseas for a few years. To avoid Yoichi being poisoned by the Japanese ideology of playing soccer, and ended up burying his ego and having his spirit killed by Japanese soccer. Also, being surrounded by high-level egoist pro-players helped Yoichi improve tremendously.

At the request of Jinpachi. Noa, as the player-coach and leader of Bastard München, agreed to take Yoichi under his wings and let him take a no-contract apprenticeship and train alongside other BM members. Noa is heavily involved from the start since the inception of the Blue Lock project.

He is not allowed to play in official matches; therefore, his presence is not known to the public. Not that Yoichi cares much about fame, he would rather have his debut match as a Blue Lockers. He wanted a grand debut that would leave a lasting impression on the viewers as a representative of Blue Lock.

Jinpachi has closely monitored Yoichi’s development and is tirelessly working with Noa to incorporate a training regime that will later be implemented for Blue Lock participants as well. He was sort of the guinea pig for Jinpachi to measure the rate of success of his method of training. The result: Yoichi has passed all the trials given and is deemed qualified to earn the spot as the starter member of Blue Lock Eleven; therefore, he does not need to go through the selection process and will assume the role of assistant coach, which will help Jinpachi oversee the development of other participants. By taking part in their training, he will observe their ability and assess their potential in the field to find the best way to utilize each of them.

Yoichi doesn’t mind if he has to go through the selection process alongside others, but Jinpachi said including him in any team would have tipped the scales to their favor, and it would kill their potential to develop if some of them became too dependent on him.

Without struggling to face an insurmountable adversity, players will never outgrow their weak mindset that requires them to evolve past their limitations.

The flight from Berlin to Tokyo takes about fourteen hours, plenty of time to kill, and Yoichi decided to use it to review the data of the Blue Lock facility that Jinpachi has sent him, along with the complete data of the three hundred forward participants that Jinpachi has chosen to invite to join the project. The invitations have been printed and sent to the addresses of each participant by now. He wonders how many among them would show up for the presentation, how many are willing to give it a shot. Surely some will be curious enough.

He starts from the list of players marked to be exceptional by Jinpachi’s standard.

The first one is Itoshi Rin, regarded as the most promising talent out of all the candidates. He boasts incredible precision shots that are almost always able to score a goal. His main weapon is his high tactical analysis that allows him to manipulate teammates and opponents alike to his benefit in the field. His parabola shot is a sight to behold.

He is also the younger brother of Itoshi Sae, the Japanese prodigy that recruited by Re Al a few years back.

Shidou Ryusei his weapon is his peerless athleticism, which enables him to score a goal from any position within his goal zone. He promotes a completely selfish playstyle that focuses solely on scoring a goal by all means, even sabotaging his own teammates if needed. Unfortunately, his violent nature tends to lead him to be a liability in a match.

Nagi Seishiro and Mikage Reo from Hakuho Academy, a pair that just started playing soccer six months ago but are incredibly talented. Nagi, in particular, is a genius forward with innate physical skill and trapping ability. Mikage, on the other hand, being the brain behind their teamplay, has balanced overall stats. He had neither a glaring weakness nor an exceptional weapon.

And of course, the one heralded as the Jewel of Japanese soccer, Kira Ryosuke, who recently made it to the National. The one renowned for carrying the future of Japanese Soccer. He is currently the Captain and Ace of Matsukaze Kokuo, the strongest Soccer high school team in Saitama prefecture, Yoichi’s hometown.

He watches Kira’s interview shortly after his team won the spot at the National in the Saitama prefectural final match.

“I only make it so far because I have everyone in my team,” Kira said sheepishly, flashing a bright smile in front cameras. The handsome blond statement was followed up by loud cheering from his brigade of fangirls and claps from the crowd of spectators.

Kira is truly a skillful forward who befits his title. But, with his way of thinking, Yoichi wonders how he would fare in Blue Lock.

As he continued to scour over the other participants, few caught his attention. Bachira Meguru from Chiba, a technician with unconventional dribble and refuses to make a pass to any of his teammates. Chigiri Hyoma and his explosive acceleration, the former ace of Lacosu Tech High, have captivated spectators with his speed.

Yoichi clicked on the data of a player with bangs covering half his face named Niko Ikki. Even players that at first glance didn’t have a skill that makes them stand out among their peers might have hidden potential that will be revealed throughout the selection process. Any one of these has the same chances as the talented to stand on the same field. Yoichi understands this because Yoichi, himself, started as a mediocre player with unremarkable skill. He understands the struggle of constantly being overlooked and underestimated. Jinpachi entrusts him with the task of bringing out the potential of the players to the fullest.

Only those who possess the quality to be the best striker in the world may survive the Blue Lock project. Twenty-three members are required to join the next PIFA World Cup. They need another twenty-two players, twenty-two Egoists that able to endure the extreme test and climb to the top rank of Blue Lock.

Jinpachi and a red-haired woman that Yoichi didn’t recognize were already waiting for him once he exited the arrival gate. The last time they met in person was a year ago. The interaction between them is limited to FaceTime and phone calls every few days, sometimes weeks. He always reminds Jinpachi to take care of his own health, but it falls on deaf ears.

Jinpachi seems even thinner than before; he must have eaten nothing but cup noodles again. He doesn’t seem to get adequate rest either, judging from the dark circles under his eyes.

Jinpachi, with his usual laid-back greeted him. “It seems you’re getting taller, Yoichi, just a little bit though.” He is making a measuring gesture with his fingers. The man’s expression hardly changed from his usual emotionless visage, and there was barely any enthusiasm in his tone, even though they finally met again after a year.

“That’s the first thing you said to me?!” Yoichi frowned.

Jinpachi ignores him and instead proceeds to introduce him to the woman. “Anri-chan, this kid is Isagi Yoichi; he will assist us with the development of the Blue Lock project.”

He shifted back to Yoichi, gesturing at Anri. “This woman is Teieri Anri; she will help us manage things around Blue Lock and also bridge our connection to JFU.”

Both Yoichi and Anri exchanged a polite bow to each other.

“You were younger than I expected, Isagi-kun. When Ego-san said we’re going to have an assistant coach, I thought we’ll be meeting someone older…” Anri said with a jittery smile. She was indirectly implying that she wanted someone with more experience.

“Don’t worry about him, Anri-chan.” Jinpachi waves dismissively at Anri. “He might be young, but I assured you, Yoichi is perfectly capable of doing his tasks; he is the pupil that I raised.” It’s faint, but Yoichi detects a hint of pride in Jinpachi’s tone, and it’s enough to make the corners of Yoichi’s mouth turn upward.

Anri nods, still slightly awkward.

When they stepped out of the airport, Yoichi was immediately struck by the hot, humid air. The heat of dazzling sunlight and the sounds of cicadas in the distance. The summer season is at its peak.

“Are we headed to the Blue Lock site now?” Yoichi asks hopefully as they make their way through the parking lot. He’s already impatient to see the inside of the Blue Lock facility. His excitement is akin to a child who is about to go to an amusement park for the first time.

“I’m afraid there won’t be time. President Buratsuta has summoned us for another meeting. He said the coach of the U-20 team, Hoichi Yasumori, will also attend this time.” Anri explained, and Yoichi’s face fell. All the enthusiasm instantly left his body.

“You will get tons of opportunities to explore around the facility. That place will be your home until the next World Cup takes place.” Jinpachi is assuring him.

During the ride on the way to JFU headquarters, Yoichi spent half the time discussing the project. The facility, the equipment’s and the training schedules. At the start, Jinpachi planned to have only two stages of selection, although depending on how the participants perform, they might have to revise their earlier plan. The two were so preoccupied with their conversation that they completely overlooked Anri. She has stayed quiet from the start of the trip, seemingly unable to catch up with them.

“Sorry, we didn’t mean to ignore you, Teieri-san,” Yoichi said. “If I may ask, what makes you want to take a part in this ambitious project?” Jinpachi has never mentioned anything about Anri’s involvement in the project at all.  He can’t help but wonder how these two even came to know each other. Judging from how socially inept his mentor is, Jinpachi wouldn’t have trusted just anybody to take part in managing the Blue Lock project.

“Her late father was my former coach during my time in the local league.” Jinpachi was the one who answered his question.

“My father mentioned Ego-san to me before his passing.” Anri nodded. “He said that he is the only hope Japan has of ever winning a World Cup because Ego-san is the only one who hasn’t given up on the idea of our country winning.”

“I decided to join JFU because I hold on to that dream. I thought I could make a change, but it’s frustrating to see those executives who sit at the top of the board care nothing but profit.” She bit her lower lip. Seemingly, she is genuinely concern about the future of Japanese soccer.

“If this project succeeds, we will prove them wrong. We will show them that we can win with our method and hopefully will change the way this country views soccer as a whole.” Yoichi said. “To create an egoist player that can stand on top as the world’s best striker, sacrificing camaraderie is necessary.”

Anri chuckles in response to Yoichi’s statement. “You sounded just like Ego-san. You definitely are his disciple, Isagi-kun.”

Yoichi is scratching his head. Unsure whether to take it as a joke or a compliment.

“But, from what Ego-san told me, you are an extremely strong, right? That’s why you didn’t need to go through the selection process.” Anri claps her hands with mirth.

“Well, I’m…” Yoichi looks to the side bashfully, happy with the praise. Despite his skill, Yoichi isn’t the type of person who loves standing out; he prefers humility over being perceived as condescending or overbearing – traits most egoists tend to display – Besides, he doesn’t possess the level of charm that Michael had to pull off a haughty persona.

All of a sudden, Jinpachi interrupts their conversation. “He is strong. At his level now, I do not doubt that he can take on world-level players.” He stated as a matter of fact.

Yoichi’s chest swelled with pride at his mentor’s unexpected praise. Jinpachi is hard to please and seldom shows his appreciation outright, even when Yoichi manages to meet his standard. To hear Jinpachi putting that much faith in his skill, directly from the man himself, fills him with unparalleled joy rivaled only by the feeling of claiming victory over a long match against tough opponents.

Once they arrived at their destination and entered the lobby, the receptionist informed them that the board member of JFU had waited for them in the meeting room and directed them to the designated floor. After the short exchange, Anri thanked her and they quickly headed to the elevator.

By the time they reached the meeting room, all the executives of JFU shot them a glare just as they stepped into the room. A few of them seem puzzled by Yoichi ‘s presence; he can feel their curious gaze directed at him. But they decided to keep their mouth shut. Disregarding their open animosity, Jinpachi strolled to the seat reserved for him and sat down. Yoichi and Anri followed suit and stood beside him as the attention of the room focused on the group.

“You know you are five minutes late for the assigned time for the meeting?” Buratsuta is the first one to break the silence. “You’re inconveniencing others since everyone here takes time from their busy schedule to come here for the meeting. That’s a bad manner, Ego-kun. It’s common knowledge that you should come thirty minutes before the meeting starts.” He said through gritted teeth, barely concealing his contempt.

“I apologize, we have to make a stop by the airport,” Anri said, lowering her head shamefully. Her apology doesn't seem to appease Buratsuta in the slightest, as the old man’s glare at Jinpachi intensified.

“Don’t you have anything to say for your tardiness, Ego-kun?”

Outside of football, Yoichi is a pacifist who is rarely ever confrontational. While he might dislike some people’s arrogant attitudes, he never thought he could develop a deep disdain toward anyone in their first meeting. Buratsuta proved him wrong. The way the old swine smirks snidely and belittles Jinpachi truly gets on his nerves.

 From what little his mentor told him, Buratsuta Hirotoshi sounds like a typical greedy businessman who treated football as a tool to earn money. He holds no passion for the sport and cares little for the future of Japanese Soccer. Raising a question of how he even granted the position as the President of the football association. He is dead set on believing the Blue Lock project is destined to fail, and wanted to demolish it from the start. He would try to get in their way any chance he got.

Although Jinpachi expects that Buratsuta will have a change of heart once the project generates enough profit for him.

“Don’t need to sweat small issues,” Jinpachi replied nonchalantly. “Besides, you’re one to talk. Who made us wait for an hour during our last meeting?”

 Buratsuta turned red with anger at the lanky man bringing up his past mistake.

“I was picking up my pupil.” He gestured at Yoichi. “His name is Isagi Yoichi, and he will be assisting me in coaching the participants who get picked to join the project.”

The executive members’ faces instantly morphed into shock. Staring at the Mentor-Pupil pair with disbelief. He can hear them murmuring to each other ‘An assistant coach, He said. Is he out of his mind?!’ and ‘Who gave him permission to recruit someone without approval from the President?’

Jinpachi pays no heed to their insignificant rambles and continues. “He is also the first Blue Lock member of the U-20 team that will represent Japan to participate in the upcoming PIFA World Cup.”

The room falls into deathly silence at Jinpachi’s bold declaration.

 “What kind of out-of-season April mob joke is this?! Representing Japan, you said? We already have a National U-20 team, y’know?!” The voice bellowed, filled with anger, cutting the silence in the room as everyone’s attention turned to the owner of the voice. The coach of the current Japanese U-20 team, Hoichi Yasumori.

“Are you saying that kid of yours is on the same level as the elite team that I trained for years?! There is a limit to how delusional you can be, you hack of a coach!” Furious, Hoichi banged his fist on his desk. Face flushed, nostrils flare, and eyes bulging from his sockets. Like a fuse that’s about to blow.

The other executives exchange apprehensive glances with one another. Neither seems to want to intervene in the heated scene.

Buratsuta smirks with gleeful mockery at Jinpachi as if saying, ‘Serves you right,’ meanwhile Anri nervously looks down at her feet.

Yoichi stands still, mirroring his mentor’s eerie calmness as Jinpachi replies to the enraged man. “No.” He said in an even tone. “My Yoichi is infinitely better than the trash team that didn’t even make it to the quarter final in the previous World Cup.”

Once again, the room fell into silence. Hoichi is speechless, with his mouth gaping at Jinpachi, outright insulting his team to his face. The glasses man takes the opportunity to continue uninterrupted. “How about we make a deal? Give me three months to train a team for a match with yours. If my team loses, then I will shut down The Blue Lock project and deem it a failure. But, if my team wins, then you’ll have to concede your spot as the National team to mine.”

Jinpachi steepled his hands and shot a beady glance across the room. Daring them to take on his challenge.

“This is the proof that I wager my life in this Project.”

“Preposterous! What kind of a deal is that?! Why did we have to give up our position as the National team for a motley crew of high-schoolers?! Who do you think you are?! This is beyond insulting!!” Protested Hoichi. His rage earlier has evaporated, replaced with uncertainty.

“If you are truly confident in the strength of your team, then you would have no problem taking the challenge head-on. Or, are you that terrified at the possibility that your team might be losing?” Questioned Jinpachi.

“Interesting.” Buratsuta suddenly intervenes. “I will allow the match with one condition.” The old man smirks as he holds up three fingers. “If Team Blue Lock wins, then I get to pick three members among the twenty-three candidates to participate in the World Cup.”

“Very well.” Jinpachi nodded, accepting the deal.

“If you lose, get ready to grovel and beg Ego-kun; we won’t show you any mercy!” Buratsuta cackles derisively, which sort of reminded Yoichi of a mob boss villain from an anime. Then he shifts his gaze to Yoichi. “Do you have anything you want to say, brat? If your team loses, you won’t have any future in Soccer. Are you fine with that?”

Yoichi has been quiet the entire time, straightening his posture, lifting his head in a poised manner as he opened his mouth and said unflinchingly.

“We won’t lose. Because I’ll be the one who is going to lead Japan to victory in the U-20 World Cup.”

- To Be Continued -

-----  Blue Lock additional time: Home  -----

Nothing much has changed in Yoichi’s hometown after three years. He knows the streets of his neighborhood like the back of his hand. A few changes have occurred over the years.

The bakery still stands; he wonders if they still sell their popular melon pan. The confectionery shop was already demolished, and in its place a convenience store was built. He wonders if the granny who owns the shop has already passed away. He used to frequently visit the shop back in grade school. The old bookstore has been refurbished into an internet café. However, largely the area stays the same.

After passing a couple of blocks and rows of houses. The car stopped in front of one that had a blue roof. A single-family detached house, a regular 2 LDK house that was no different than most houses in the complex.

The plate mounted on the wall fence outside bears his family’s surname. The home where he grew up in and the only property his parents left for him. Jinpachi had ensured Yoichi retained the legal ownership of the house. It seems neat and clean from the outside; Jinpachi must have kept it properly maintained during his absence.

“It’s been months since the last time I’ve been here. It might be a bit dusty.” Jinpachi said when he got out of the car and walked up to the entrance.

He unlocked the door, and when he opened it, they were greeted with darkness and silence. Jinpachi flicked the switch next to the entrance. The hallway was suddenly illuminated by the light from the lamp. Yoichi smiled at the familiar scenery of his foyer.

“Oh, right,” Jinpachi said the moment he stepped inside. “I haven’t said that yet.” He turned his head to look at Yoichi.

“Welcome back, Yoichi.”

His unexpected words stun Yoichi momentarily. But then a grin stretched across his face as he replied. “I’m home.”  

Chapter Text

Yoichi was surrounded by three hundred participants who filled the spacious conference hall almost to the brim. Each of them comes from a different school, only a few that seem to come from the same school and club, and they are already forming a group. Those who already knew each other are chattering; they all had equally confused looks on their faces.

Yoichi briefly wonders what his life would be like had he stayed in Japan and gone to high school like other guys his age. But the thought of having to attend boring classes immediately curbed any desire he had to try imagining it. 

Yoichi didn’t continue school past elementary.  Jinpachi has taken over the responsibility of his education, and he has been homeschooled ever since. His mentor rather had him focused primarily on his football training and viewed school and extracurricular activities as nothing but unnecessary distractions. Jinpachi places more faith in autodidacticism than in any institution of education and sees little merit in pursuing higher education in public schools.

Not that Yoichi objects, as long as he is spared from tedious school life, he would much rather dedicate his time to doing what he loves the most, Football.

Besides, neither Noel nor Michael goes to school nor has any degree, yet they have made millions.

There are several candidates among them that Yoichi remembers from the list. He immediately recognizes Aryu Jyubei from Tochigi, renowned for his jumping power and Long reach. Tokimitsu Aoshi from Daruma Azuma High School, despite being meek, had an immovable physique. And, Tsurugi Zantetsu from Kashikoi Academy is known for his incredible acceleration. A few others like the tallest soccer player in high school, Ishikari, the Aomori ‘Messi’ Nishioka, and Ohkawa, ace of Senno’s high school.

“Whoa, it's so crowded.” A voice belonging to Kira Ryosuke comes from behind him. “I have never seen you before. Where did you come from?” Asks the blonde.

“I’m from Saitama prefecture.” Answered Yoichi.

“Really?” Kira’s eyes immediately lit up with curiosity. “I’m from Saitama as well, and I’m currently a second-year student at Matsukaze Kokuo High. From which school are you?”

Before Yoichi answered, the bald guy suddenly interrupted their conversation to fawn over Kira. “Whoa! You’re Kira Ryosuke, who recently won and entered the National, aren’t you? I watched your match! The Jewel of Japanese soccer!”

Igarashi Gurimu is even noisier in person. It is not that Yoichi is doubting Jinpachi’s decision-making, but he really can’t fathom why Igarashi was even picked as one of the candidates. There’s truly nothing notable about the guy’s skills or physicality, not even a unique weapon that stands out from the rest, and even if he joined the project, Yoichi doubt Igarashi would have made it beyond first selection.

While the two were busy talking to each other, Yoichi used the opportunity to slip away and continue his observation of other players.

Barou Shouhei is intimidating a few other candidates who quickly cower and move out of his way, giving him space after he glowers at them.

“Senpai, what do you think this project is about?” Hiori Yo looked around the crowds, asking Karasu Tabito, who stood on his side. “I guess, that’s what we’re going ta find out.” The spiky-haired guy said with a smirk. Both of them are members of the Kansai youth team. Karasu’s most notable skill is his analytic ability; he thoroughly sees through his opponent and figures out their weaknesses. Hiori’s weapons are his highly accurate passes and exceptional ball control.

“That busty redhead manager is a cutie, don’t you think?” Yoichi accidentally overheard a conversation between two guys as he passed them. The one whispered was Otoya Eita, the guy he talks to; a shortie named Imamura Yudai nods eagerly with a lecherous smile. “You think she has a boyfriend?”

“Dunno, but I will consider joining the Blue Lock project if she offers me a kiss ~ ” Otoya said, making a blowing kiss gesture at her that, fortunately, Anri didn’t see. His reputation as a womanizer is more well-known than his soccer ability.

“Oh, look, another cute redhead on your right!” Imamura pointed, glancing to the spot near the wall.

“That’s a dude, dumbass.” Otoya rolled his eyes, correcting him when he saw the redhead wearing male Gakuran. Imamura must have just seen the guy’s face and didn’t bother checking the uniform.

The androgynous guy they’re talking about is Chigiri Hyoma. The redhead leaned against the wall with folded arms, shooting a disgruntled look at any guy that leering his way.

Yoichi saw two guys approaching the redhead. The guys who went to the same school as him, the Wanima twins.

“Oi, Chigiri, so you were invited as well.” The younger, Wanima Keisuke, said, leering with a perpetual mocking grin on his face. The older twin with a face similar to angry Daruma, Wanima Junichi, only glowers at Chigiri.

“They won’t have any more use of you since you lost that speed so proud of; there is no point joining the project since there is no hope for you in Soccer.” Cackled the younger Wanima. Chigiri, instead of lashing back at them, just quietly moved away from the twins, ignoring Wanima Keisuke spewing profanities at him.

There seems to be bad blood between them, whatever it is, Yoichi couldn’t care less as long as their petty squabble doesn’t get in the way of Blue Lock.

“There doesn’t seem to be anyone from my school other than me.” Bachira Meguru looks around the crowds.

“None from mine either.” Niko Ikki, who stood beside him, muttered in reply.

“That means we were the only ones who got recognition from our respective schools.” Another guy, Yukimiya Kenyu who stood near them, joined the conversation.

Behind the three, standing the pair from Hakuho Academy.

“I’m sleepy, can they start and get over it already? I want to go home.” Nagi Seishiro said tiredly after a loud yawn.

“That’s why I told you not to stay up all night playing games.” His companion, Mikage Reo, the purple-haired one beside him, pouted, placing his hand on his hips while shaking his head.

“What the hell is your problem?!” The blond with tan skin, Shidou Ryusei, groused

“Huh?! You’re the one who bumps into me, asshole!” Another blonde, Jingo Raichi, retorts in anger, pulling Shidou by his collar.

A rambunctious bunch of people, including Otoya, quickly gather around the two, intrigued at the possibility that a fight would break out.

“Please, don’t fight!” Yelled one guy as he rushed over to the two and knocked Yoichi by accident. “Ah! I’m so sorry!” The guy, Nanase Nijiro, briefly glances at Yoichi, uttering an apology before rushing back to separate Raichi and Shidou.

Yoichi sighs as he attempts to stand back up Someone reached out a hand to help him.

“Are you alright?” He looked up and saw a guy, shorter than average, with bright pink hair with fuchsia eyes. Yoichi accepted his hand and thanked him as he got up. He instantly recognized the guy, Kurona Ranze, from Kirikizan High School, and one of the participants who caught his interest. Yoichi is sort of happy; Kurona decided to come all the way from Hokkaido.

 “Knock it off!” They both turned their attention to the commotion again; this time, a tall orange-haired dude, Kunigami Rensuke, had broken off the fight. Pushing Shidou and Raichi away from one another.

“Tsk, what a hooligans.” Yoichi shot stinky eyes at them. He pitied anyone who ended up on the same team as that violent duo.

The entire lights in the room suddenly dimmed, save for the one directed at the center of the stage. All eyes in the room turned to Ego Jinpachi standing on the stage. The man has suited up for the occasion, with a formal blue blazer and a proper tie, instead of his usual wrinkled old black shirt and makeshift tie made of an old shoelace. Yoichi has made sure to appraise Jinpachi’s attire before leaving the house this morning. Because, given Jinpachi’s lack of care of his personal image in public, he would dress up sloppily. Yoichi is happy, however, that Jinpachi always donned the tiny football-shaped tiepin that he gave him years ago as a birthday gift.

“Congratulations, you unpolished lump of talent.” He said, staring at the crowd before him. “According to my assessment, the three hundred of you are the best strikers under eighteen. I am Ego Jinpachi, and I was hired to make it possible for Japan to win a World Cup. ”

As Yoichi thought, his mentor made a bold statement that instantly captured the participants’ attention. He notices some participants around him exchanging bewildered looks with one another. Some even make a twirling motion on the side of their head as if hearing a rambling of a lunatic ­­—Not like Yoichi can blame them, with Jinpachi,  odd dramatic way of delivering a speech that most often than not, drove people away.

Jinpachi then proceeds to explain the reason they were gathered there and introduces them to the Blue Lock facility. Their main goal is to produce a striker that going to revolutionize Japanese Soccer and bring them to claim their very first victory in the World Cup. Anyone that willing to participate will have to leave behind their homes and the Soccer club behind. That includes those who belong to the team that made it to the National.

While many are completely perplexed, some participants, including those that Yoichi saw earlier, are intrigued, genuinely interested in what Jinpachi has to offer.

“I assure you, the one who survives the selection to the very end will be the world’s best striker. That concludes my explanation. Thank you.” The participants are struck speechless by Jinpachi’s explanation.

All but one.  A few seconds after Jinpachi finished his presentation, a clear and firm voice cut through the silence of the JFA conference hall. a voice that belongs to Kira Ryuunosuke. “Excuse me, I can’t consent to that!” He raised his hand in objection. “Each of us has our own team, some of us are preparing for the National, I can’t abandon my team to participate in a ridiculous project!” 

To the surprise of no one, the righteous Kira is the first one to cast a doubt on the project. Following him, the other participants start voicing their protest as well. As Yoichi expected, many will be against the project that comes out of the blue and threatens to end their soccer career if they fail.

”Then pissed off,” Jinpachi hissed into the microphone. “If you want to leave, I won’t stop you. I get depressed when I think people like you are carrying the future of Japanese soccer.” The room went silent once again, speechless at the harsh insult. Seeing the flabbergasted expression of the participant around him, Yoichi resisted the urge to comment, ‘It’s okay, you’ll get used to it eventually.’

Jinpachi has always been unapologetically bold and never holds back when insulting others. A small wonder how he manages to make enemies of the entire board of JFU.

“Let me ask you this: what is soccer to you?” Jinpachi said, looking directly at Kira. “A sport in which eleven people combine their powers? Saying things like ‘Treasuring our bonds’ or ‘Fought for my friend’s sake?’ That’s the reason why this country’s team has always been weak! Our teamwork might’ve been the best in the entire world, but apart from that, everything else is second-rate!”

“In essence, soccer is a sport in which you score more points than your opponent. If your point of playing soccer is only to get along with your teammates, then piss off. I don’t need the likes of you in Blue Lock.” Jinpachi said, waving both his hands in dismissive gestures toward the protesters.

Soccer is a sport in which you score more points than your opponent, and whoever scores the most points is the best. The mindset of playing for the sake of others is what Jinpachi believes holding back the Japanese team, and he aims to destroy the weak ideology from its roots and build them up entirely from scratch.

“I disagree, please take that back!” Kira bites back, now sounding enraged. “We grew up watching the Japanese team cooperate and how important it is to have eleven people work together to win! There are exceptional players like Honda and Kagawa. I won’t let you disrespect them! They are my heroes!”

“But none of them wins a World Cup. Then that means they’re trash. I’m talking about being the best in the world.” The blonde’s face darkened with fury at Jinpachi’s statement.

Jinpachi then proceeds to give examples of several selfish quotes made by famous World-class players, and of course, including Noel Noa.

It was honestly amusing to witness the exchange of banter between Kira and Jinpachi. Metaphorically, it’s like a hero in shining armor standing up to the Villain mastermind that insulted the very essence of Japanese soccer.  

“What Japanese soccer lacks is ego. Without ego, you can never hope to become the World’s best striker or win the World Cup.” Despite his sheer audacity, Jinpachi’s speech is very compelling. His mentor had the knack to persuade people, and Yoichi can see that some of the participants are swayed by his words.

They must have understood that feeling as well. The frustration, the hunger, and dissatisfaction of being held back by a team that prioritizes selflessness over individuality.  

“Someone who dares to gamble his nation’s hope and assurance of victory to take a shot at the goal without hesitation. That’s the kind of Egoist that I intend to produce with this project.” The sounds of hinges, gear clunking, and the enormous metal gate behind Jinpachi opened automatically.

“Soccer is a sport that exists for you strikers; think of everyone beside yourself on the field as supporting actors. Discard your common sense, rejoice in your own goal above all else, and live for nothing but that moment. Follow your instinct, you’re all strikers, right?”

Something in Jinpachi’s words resonates with them. No one knows who was the first that run toward the gate, but Yoichi caught a glimpse of a familiar silhouette who zipped past him; it was what it takes. All it took was one person running toward the gate, and suddenly everyone else rushed to follow him in droves. The hall is emptied in the blink of an eye.

Jinpachi’s mouth twitched and formed an eerie grin. Seems like his speech is far more effective than they thought, as it's convinced most participants to join.

Except one.

“Still can’t make up your mind?” Yoichi said as he approached the dumbfounded Kira. Only the three of them were left in the hall after all the other participants crossed the door.

“You, the one from earlier…you stayed behind as well?” Kira glances at him.

“Now, now, don’t get me wrong. I’m already part of the project from the very start.” Yoichi said, earning a puzzled look from Kira.

“To answer your question earlier, Kira. No, I am not from any school.” He put on a nametag on his right chest. “I am Isagi Yoichi, an assistant coach to Director Ego Jinpachi, and I will be the one to oversee the training during the selection process. I bid you all welcome for taking part in Project Blue Lock.” His mouth broke into a wicked grin, satisfied when the confused look on Kira’s face morphed into utter shock.

Chapter Text

It’s been a month since the candidates arrived at Blue Lock dorm, and the project has been proceeding smoothly so far. The first selection is nearing its end, and they start the preparation for the second selection phase.

Over these couple of weeks, Yoichi’s day schedule revolves around observing the training of different teams in all stratum. He would move from one wing to another every day to check on the progress of every team, then report the result to Jinpachi at the end of the day.

It is also his job to check on the players who stay up late past their curfew and remind them to catch some rest.

He only has free time after all the participants are done for the day, which he uses for soccer practices, then re-watching the day’s match footage, taking a bath before going to sleep. He slept only for three hours a day and had to be up early to wake up Jinpachi and clean up any mess in the monitor room before Anri’s arrival.

Within each team, there will be a problematic member. For Team V in the fourth wing, that would be Shidou Ryusei. While observing their practice, Shidou gets in disagreement with his teammate, Kiyora Jin.

 “Think you can take me? Go ahead, try. I’ll crush anyone who disrespects me.” Kiyora retorts to Shidou’s jab at him. Usually, Kiyora is a pretty quiet guy and answers everything with a lack any enthusiasm. He is also not one to typically start any trouble, but Shidou’s selfishness seems to have driven him over the edge today.

“Hah! Right back at you. Anybody who can’t keep up with my explosiveness can drop dead!” Shidou spat back.

Shidou visibly gets more agitated by Kiyora’s defiance, and when Shidou grabbed Kiyora by the collar and yanked him up, Yoichi knew he had to intervene. He won’t let him break the rule under his watch.

 “That’s enough, Shidou, put him down.” Yoichi said in a stern tone.

“Alright, alright, whatever you say, Yocchan ~ ” Shidou beamed and quickly released Kiyora.

“You okay?” Yoichi stretched his hand to help Kiyora stand, but he slapped it away.

“I don’t need your help, don’t butt in!” The shortie hissed as he walked past Yoichi.

Kiyora’s bravery is commendable, even admirable in Yoichi’s opinion. The guy got some guts that led him to dare taking high-stakes risk in a match – And claim the credit for himself –  But, if he keeps pushing his luck without knowing his limitations, there is no telling when Shidou will break some of his ribs.

“Don’t call me Yocchan, you can give me any nickname other than that.” Yoichi retorts sharply. That nickname was personal. It was the nickname his late mother used to call him with; only people who were exceptionally close to him to the point he considered as family that Yoichi allowed to use that nickname.

“Aight ~ I’m going to call you Yo-tan,” Shidou said and wrapped his arms around Yoichi.

“Do as you like.” Yoichi sighs, not bothered to argue with him.

Shidou became attached to him after Yoichi agreed to do one-on-one practice with him. He seems to be deeply enamored by the ‘explosive’ in Yoichi’s playstyle or whatever he means by that.

As long as Shidou becomes easier to control and is willing to listen to him as his coach, Yoichi couldn’t care less.

“By the way, can you tell Ego to add a sandbag to the training room?”

“Sandbag? What do you want them for? Is the training equipment not to your liking?” Yoichi raised an eyebrow. Last time he checked, a sandbag wasn’t required for soccer training.

Shidou clicked his tongue as he replied, “It’s just a bit stale, you know? I need more stimulation than merely kicking a ball.”

“I’ll see what I can do.” Yoichi nods. “If the director approves, it should arrive within a few days.”

“Thank you ~ I know I can count on you, Yo-tan!” Shidou said and happily went back to practice.

Well, better to fulfill his request. Yoichi would rather have Shidou practice his kick on a sandbag than on his teammates.

Shidou isn’t the only one who is infatuated with him; over these past two weeks, several other Blue Lock members have started flocking around him as well. Bachira and Kunigami from team Z of the fifth stratum, Kurona from team V of the third stratum, Nanase from team X of the fourth stratum, Niko from team Y, and Nagi from team V of the fifth stratum.

Yoichi can’t think of a reasonable explanation as to why they became attached to him. It’s not like Yoichi is doing anything spectacular either. He merely helped them practice and showed them several moves that he learn during his time in Bastard München, and while he isn’t as adept as Jinpachi at giving motivational speeches, he still tries his best to encourage them.

He gave them advice on how to utilize their weapons better. Some, like Yukimiya and Chigiri, take it with a grain of salt; some, like Rin and Barou, are way too proud and outright reject his idea and prefer doing it their own way, and the rest readily agree and work hard to improve themselves.

The most earnest one is Nanase. Yoichi notices the guy had the same gift as Noa, being naturally ambidextrous, and told him to focus on training his left leg, and he’s been diligently following his instructions.

On his way back to the control room to submit his daily report to Jinpachi, he happened to stumble across Barou in the hallway. He seems to be fresh out of the bath, still having a foul mood after his team was defeated by Team V yesterday. He couldn’t even score one goal against them; it seems like even the great King of the Field is powerless against the prodigy Nagi. Although, to be fair, it was three Vs one. Team V manages to win because of the combined effort between Nagi, Mikage, and Zantetsu. Barou, on the other hand, fights on his own.

Barou Shouhei has extremely great physical ability that enables him to burst his way through crowds of players by force; unfortunately, he relies too much on physical strength alone. While he can aim long shots toward the goal, his accuracy is low and drops significantly when he is outside his shooting zone or under pressure. It didn’t help that he ended up in a team X with mostly average players who were completely dependent on him to win the match.

 Yoichi happened to pass by the training field. In there, He saw Kira training by himself. Practicing his kick over and over again.

Today, they suffer another defeat against Team W – Which is not entirely their fault since Kuon Wataru betrayed them –  After their defeat against Team X previously, they are on the brink of elimination, along with Team Y. Their next opponent is Team V, the strongest team in the fifth wing, which has defeated both Team X, W, and Y. There is an extremely slight chance that Team Z comes up victorious.

It’s unfortunate since, in Yoichi’s opinion, Team Z has the most balance out of all the teams he coached. Kunigami with his physical playstyle and powerful middle-shot, Bachira and his outlandish dribbling, Gagamaru with his uncanny flexibility, and Chigiri the speedster with unrivaled acceleration. Each of them has powerful weapons, and it would be a waste to see them gone; if only there were someone on that team who could create a chemical reaction with them, surely the outcome would be different.

Kira must be pretty desperate. His ideal of camaraderie to create a united team crumbles because of Kuon’s betrayal. He didn’t think to take into account at possibility that one of his teammates would stab them in the back.

“The first selection is nearing its end. Since you have already scored three goals so far, you won’t be among those who will get eliminated. That must be a relief to you.” Kira didn’t bother to reply to Yoichi’s snide remark and continued his solo practice. Kuon’s betrayal hit hard, especially to someone like Kira who prioritizes teamwork above all else.

The other player from Team Z who probably made it to the second selection, aside from Kira, is likely Kuon, who has already been given a chance to score three goals by Team W. Kunigami and Bachira each have scored two goals in previous matches, so they should be fine if they can score one more goal. The rest of them have to pack their bags if they lose against Team V.

After Kira shot several balls into the goalpost, he took a short break and went to retrieve a drink. Yoichi knew Kira had something to say and decided to stick around and wait.

“I’m joining this project to prove that Ego Jinpachi is wrong.” The blonde said after finishing his drink. “I will pass all the selection while holding my principles, and I won’t let Ego skew my perspective.”

“What an admirable conviction, let’s see how far that takes you here.” Yoichi clapped his hands, applauding him.

“Not that I expect Ego’s lapdog to understand.” He spat. Only in front of Yoichi did Kira reveal his true nature.

“We will win the next match! All members of the team a precious friends of mine, I won’t let any of our soccer careers end here!” Kira said with unyielding determination.

“All of them?” Yoichi questioned, amused. “Even Kuon, who betrayed you?”

“One bad apple won’t spoil the entire basket.” Kira rectify. “As long as the ten of us are willing to work together, I’m sure we will prevail!”

Kira pretends that everything is fine, but despite his effort, he can’t get Team Z to work together again. Their team morale hit rock bottom after their defeat by team W. Now, they each train separately. At this rate, building trust between them would be impossible.

“It’s getting tiring to hear you went on and on about the importance of friendship and camaraderie when deep down inside, you were looking down on your team for not being as good as you,” Yoichi said, and the blond halted his movement and turned to him.

Kira narrowed his eyes, “What do you mean by that?”

“Deny it all you want, it won’t change the fact that you barely let any of them take center stage away from you. The desire to stand out among the team it’s a true form of egotistic striker.”

“Let’s make a bet, have a one-on-one with me,” Yoichi challenged. “If I lose, I’m willing to concede my spot as one of Blue Lock’s eleven. But if I win, then you have to admit that Ego Jinpachi’s ideal is superior to yours.

Kira was stunned for a bit, not expecting that bold challenge, but then accepted it. “Fine, but don’t regret your bet when you lose.”

After Yoichi changed into his Blue Lock bodysuit, they went to the practice field. Before the match starts, Yoichi warned. “I won’t hold back against you.”

“Bring it on. I will defeat you, fair and square!”

And Yoichi did. Unlike in the one-on-one practice with other Blue Locker, he shows no leniency toward Kira. He gave him no opportunity to get the ball and kept baiting Kira to make the first move, and each time he successfully tricked the blonde and got past his defense.  With his perfect football control move, he kept throwing Kira off balance. He’s been up against many world-class players before; getting past the defense of a high-schooler that’s a bit better than his peers is easy as pie.

From scissors, Elastico to Nutmeg, Kira is unable to keep up with him. The short match lasted less than ten minutes, with Yoichi scoring five goals against Kira.

“Dammit!” Kira cursed; his bad mood had worsened. He glared at Yoichi with an expression of pure, unadulterated rage. “What’s the difference between you and me, huh?! I am the Jewel of Japanese soccer! The one that will carry the future of Japanese soccer! How come I’ve been defeated by a no-name like you?!”

Yoichi waited until Kira calmed down a bit before replying. “The difference is between our mindsets. You certainly have an ego as well, but compared to mine, yours is as brittle as a sand castle before a rocky mountain.”

As Yoichi stepped forward to him, Kira instinctively backed away. “You don’t have what it takes to be a striker; that’s why you lost.  You might be content being a mediocre elite, indulging yourself in being the best among averages, but for me, my aim is not to win the national title or reach the top of this country. I want to become the best striker in the world, the one who knocks down and devours the best that stands on top.” Despite his vacuous expression, the glimmer of pride in Yoichi’s eyes sent a shiver down Kira’s spine.

Still unable to accept defeat, Kira walked to exit the practice field. However, before passing through the gate, he said. “I still won’t acknowledge that Ego Jinpachi’s ideal is better than our way.”

“Still stubborn as ever.” Yoichi shakes his head. Well, it’s not like he can change one’s mind that easily. 

As he enters the control room, Jinpachi is fixated on the screen before him and pays no heed to his arrival. The surveillance room also serves as a temporary living space for both of them. Yoichi’s own room is adjacent to the monitor room. That one room is furnished, complete with a kitchen that they seldom use (except when Jinpachi makes some cup noodles). As for Yoichi, he eats pretty much the same as Blue Locker participants; the difference is that he gets a random menu every day. Except for steak, that’s one special meal that can be exchanged for every point that the players obtained from scoring a goal during scrimmage.

“I bring the report for today,” Yoichi said, placing a binder atop Jinpachi’s desk.

“Just left it there, I’ll take a look at it later,” Jinpachi murmured dismissively, eyes still glued on the screen. Whenever Jinpachi is this fixated, usually, there is an intense match going on.

Curious, Yoichi looks to the screen and sees Rin’s team in the middle of a scrimmage, and he manages to score eight goals all by himself. So far, no other Blue Lockers come close to Rin’s level as a playmaker; he, without doubt, would complete the selection process and become a candidate for Blue Lock’s eleven, the elite among Blue Lock participants. But with that attitude, Yoichi finds it will be difficult to work with him on the same team.

“There would be no scrimmage tomorrow and the day after, I’ll be giving all of them a forty-eight-hour break before their last match.”

“Also, you won’t have to observe their training tomorrow afternoon,” Jinpachi said again. 

Yoichi blinks, a bit surprised by the sudden change in schedule. “Eh? Why?”

“Because you will accompany us, along with President Buratsuta, to attend a Press conference.”

JFA conference room once again filled with people, but this time with reporters. Anri answers most of the questions they ask about Blue Lock until one of them decides to ask directly to Ego.

“You said that the team you produce in Blue Lock will beat the national U20 team three months from now,” The old reporter said, licking his lip. “I said that’s a very high-risk bet. Are you certain they will win?”

“Without doubt.”

“And the boy, your pupil, Isagi Yoichi, was it?” The reporter asks without even looking at Yoichi. “You said, he’ll be a starter in Blue Lock eleven team. You can’t expect people to believe he is that good without having to complete Blue Lock selection to be on the team.”

“Also, I heard an interesting rumor that the national U20 team is planning to recruit Itoshi Sae to join their team for the match. I like to hear your honest opinion. Do you think your esteemed pupil stands a chance against Japan’s young prodigy and superstar, who was recruited by Re-Al?”

Jinpachi knew he had to choose his words carefully. Itoshi Sae is not only Japan’s pride and currently the most popular player in their country, but he is also slowly gaining fame worldwide.

Anri glanced nervously, waiting for Jinpachi’s answer with bated breath. While Buratsuta gave him a sharp side-eye, threatening him if he were to say anything stupid.

“We wouldn’t know the result until they face each other in the match.” Both Buratsuta and Anri seemed to sigh in relief, but afterwards, Jinpachi added. “But, I believe my Yoichi isn’t inferior to Itoshi Sae.”

The other reporter immediately went silent after that single statement. To challenge a national team is one thing, to say that his pupil is equal to Itoshi Sae is a whole level of outrageousness.

“Wow, you must have a lot of faith in your pupil.” The old reporter said, grinning, glancing at Yoichi for the first time. “We’ll see if he can live up to that expectation.”

After the interview is over, and all the reporters have left the conference room that Buratsuta reprimands him for the statement earlier.

“What kind of response is that?! What if Re-Al perceives that statement as a challenge?!” The old man fumed angrily; his entire face was red as a tomato. 

“Let them be,” Jinpachi said confidently. “I did intend to make the Blue Lock team a threat to the other countries so they will never underestimate the length that Japan is willing to go to win the World Cup.”

Their attention was drawn by a sound of hands clapping, and they turned to see the person who had just barged into the room. “That was quite interesting to see.”

Both Anri and Buratsuta’s eyes widened at the unexpected visitor. It was none other than Itoshi Sae himself!

 Sae ignores Buratsuta’s attempt of sucking up to him and instead goes up directly to Ego Jinpachi. “I must admit that’s quite an interesting presentation.”

“It’s been a while, Isagi,” Sae said as he turned toward Yoichi.

“Eh? You two know each other?” Anri whispered, still in shock at Sae’s sudden appearance.

He nodded. “We met through a soccer match in grade school, and we’ve played a few games with each other afterwards. That was a long time ago, though.” Yoichi chuckles, reminiscing about how he and Michael used to play with Itoshi’s brother during their childhood.

"Do you mind if I take your time for a bit to hear more about the program?” Sae said he seemed genuinely interested in the Blue Lock project. 

“You can’t! We still have an interview with a reporter from a sports magazine after this,” His manager pleaded.

“Can’t it be delayed? If not, then rescheduled.” Sae said, irritated at the interruption.

The manager fumbled a bit but then decided to step aside to make a phone call, probably to the company to inform the change. Yoichi can’t help but feel bad for the manager. It must be hard to deal with someone as selfish as Sae.

During their younger days, Yoichi and Michael used to play soccer a lot with Itoshi’s sibling. They haven’t seen each other again since Sae was recruited by Re-Al and shortly after Yoichi was taken under Noa’s apprenticeship. Yoichi never heard from either sibling within these few years; only Michael occasionally brought up the matches he had with Sae.

“You know, Rin is participating in the Blue Lock program,” Yoichi said, although he was fairly sure Sae already knew. 

Sae turns to him with a look of disinterest, saying. “And? It has nothing to do with me.”

“You might end up facing each other in the match.”

“If he can actually make it that far.”

Yoichi somewhat already anticipated those answers. Both Itoshi siblings always displayed a reserved attitude even to each other. “That’s a cold reaction. He used to look up to you.”

“As long as he thinks of me as the sole reason for him playing soccer, Rin will never evolve.”

There was no use trying to mend their broken relationship. Yoichi was never keen to get into other people’s business. He prefers not to be involved in whatever happened between the brothers.

The manager trotted to Sae once again after he ended the call. From the looks of it, it seems like they won’t abide by Sae’s request to reschedule the interview.

“I told you not to bother me!” Sae snapped, but the terrified manager whispered something in his ear. Whatever he said must be something that Sae can’t refuse. The redhead sighed in resignation and then said. “Alright, tell them I’ll be there shortly.”

“Sorry, seems like our reunion is cut short. I need to leave now.” Sae said, shot a glance at Yoichi once again. “I’m looking forward to a match with you. Don’t you dare disappoint me, Blue Lock.” Sae said before turning and leaving. His manager bowed apologetically to them before trailing after him.