J-League opener: Sanfrecce Hiroshima’s Shōto Suzuki and G Osaka’s Ryuui Araki share ambitions

The J‑League is shifting to an autumn‑spring calendar, with the 2026‑27 season opening this weekend. Sanfrecce Hiroshima forward Shōto Suzuki discussed the club’s preparation, including training camps in Austria and Miyazaki, and highlighted the challenges of the hot start. He said he aims for double‑digit goals and at least five assists this season and expressed a desire to win titles and compete in Asian tournaments.

G Osaka’s U‑21 goalkeeper Ryuui Araki, who stands 195 cm tall, said he was inspired by national‑team goalkeeper Ayane Suzuki’s performances at the recent World Cup. Araki said he wants to earn a place in the senior Japan squad, improve his physical condition, and eventually play abroad. Both players emphasized the importance of the season’s opening matches – Sanfrecce Hiroshima will face JEF United Chiba, while G Osaka prepares for its own campaign.