Kyoto Sanga shifts to double‑midfield 4‑2‑3‑1 as players weigh Gion Festival camp

Kyoto Sanga has adopted a 4‑2‑3‑1 formation for the upcoming season, placing particular emphasis on a double‑midfield setup. Coach Cho Myeong‑jun, who previously relied on a single defensive midfielder, now fields two central midfielders to improve balance and coverage.

During the team's mid‑summer training camp, players expressed mixed emotions about the coinciding Gion Festival. The camp includes a friendly match on July 17, the day of the festival’s famous float procession, prompting the squad to juggle preparation with cultural celebrations as the league season approaches in August.