The biggest lesson I've learned by living abroad for the last four years is the importance of communication.

I notice that teams are now more interested in Japanese players than when I first went to Europe.

I will never again stand on the pitch as a professional player. But I won't stop playing the game.

Living in Europe, I was surprised to find out just how little everyone knows about Japan.

As a professional athlete, I believe that I need to explore my opportunities to the maximum, in order to excel and continue to play the best football I can.

I think that the World Cup is a big factor for this increased interest. I don't believe all of this is a result of just myself but also because of the others who are playing abroad.

We had only snacks last time, I think it was OK for a day time menu. But this time it will be late night when people gather so we should add some proper meals.