Junichi Inamoto: 'It could become the Sano World Cup' – German reporter lauds Kaishu Sano's talent; Exclusive interview with 21-year-old FW Kento Shiogai on ABEMA Sports Time
ABEMA's 'ABEMA Sports Time' featured Japan's World Cup stars Kaishu Sano and Kento Shiogai. Experts and a German reporter analyzed Sano's potential for a Premier League move, while Shiogai shared his scientific training methods and personal growth.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: May 18, 2026 at 20:30
- 🔍 Collected: May 18, 2026 at 12:01
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 18, 2026 at 12:08 (6 min after Collected)
The sports program 'ABEMA Sports Time,' aimed at 'preempting sports fever,' broadcasted its latest episode on May 13, 2026. The show featured main commentator and former MLB player Munenori Kawasaki, former Japan international Junichi Inamoto, and special guest Masahiro Yanagida, captain of the volleyball team Tokyo Great Bears.
### Evaluation of Kaishu Sano: 'Fits Crystal Palace'
The program focused on Kaishu Sano (Mainz), who was selected for the Japan World Cup squad. Michael Robert, a veteran reporter for Germany's leading football magazine 'kicker,' praised Sano, calling him 'one of the top players.' Robert highlighted Sano's timing, positioning, and 'anticipatory power,' which allows him to win duels without fouling. He also suggested that Sano's style is perfectly suited for the Premier League's Crystal Palace, noting that a strong World Cup performance could lead to a major transfer.
Junichi Inamoto agreed, stating, 'He probably won't be in the Bundesliga next year. I want to see him play in the Premier League.' Inamoto emphasized that Sano needs to take a leadership role in the midfield and predicted he would be a vital player, potentially making this 'The Sano World Cup.'
### Exclusive Interview with Kento Shiogai: The Origin of Speed
The show also featured 21-year-old FW Kento Shiogai, who made his World Cup debut. In an exclusive interview from Germany, Shiogai opened up about his struggles with loneliness living abroad without a translator and his unique approach to training.
Shiogai revealed that his motivation to improve his speed came from being stuck in the 'C team' during his first year of high school while his peers were promoted. To fix this, he researched Kylian Mbappe's running form and even studied scientific papers to optimize his training. He also mentioned Shinji Okazaki as a role model, having received advice from him on how to attack crosses. Despite limited playing time at his current club, Shiogai expressed strong determination to use his speed as a weapon in the World Cup.
### Evaluation of Kaishu Sano: 'Fits Crystal Palace'
The program focused on Kaishu Sano (Mainz), who was selected for the Japan World Cup squad. Michael Robert, a veteran reporter for Germany's leading football magazine 'kicker,' praised Sano, calling him 'one of the top players.' Robert highlighted Sano's timing, positioning, and 'anticipatory power,' which allows him to win duels without fouling. He also suggested that Sano's style is perfectly suited for the Premier League's Crystal Palace, noting that a strong World Cup performance could lead to a major transfer.
Junichi Inamoto agreed, stating, 'He probably won't be in the Bundesliga next year. I want to see him play in the Premier League.' Inamoto emphasized that Sano needs to take a leadership role in the midfield and predicted he would be a vital player, potentially making this 'The Sano World Cup.'
### Exclusive Interview with Kento Shiogai: The Origin of Speed
The show also featured 21-year-old FW Kento Shiogai, who made his World Cup debut. In an exclusive interview from Germany, Shiogai opened up about his struggles with loneliness living abroad without a translator and his unique approach to training.
Shiogai revealed that his motivation to improve his speed came from being stuck in the 'C team' during his first year of high school while his peers were promoted. To fix this, he researched Kylian Mbappe's running form and even studied scientific papers to optimize his training. He also mentioned Shinji Okazaki as a role model, having received advice from him on how to attack crosses. Despite limited playing time at his current club, Shiogai expressed strong determination to use his speed as a weapon in the World Cup.
FAQ
Is Kaishu Sano likely to transfer to the Premier League?
According to a senior reporter from Germany's 'kicker' interviewed on the show, Sano's style is well-suited for Crystal Palace. His performance at the World Cup is expected to be a key factor in future transfer negotiations.
What makes Kento Shiogai a player to watch for the World Cup?
At 21, his standout weapon is his 'running power,' developed through scientific research of Kylian Mbappe. Combined with mentorship from Shinji Okazaki, he is seen as a high-potential forward for Japan.
Where can I watch ABEMA Sports Time?
The program is available for free on the ABEMA streaming platform. After the live broadcast, viewers can watch it via their on-demand 'missed delivery' service.