This year means a lot to us.. Shiotani: Our goal is to win all tournaments
Tsukasa Shiotani …. The Perfect Husband
When we pressed the house bell of Japan’s Tsukasa Shiotani and taking a deep breath preparing ourselves to interview him and his small family as part of the section of the match day program entitled “My Family”, we were expecting to run into an impenetrable wall of seriousness when dealing with “Shio” who looks so formal most of the time to the extent he is known by his serious face features and as a man of few word, and above all you will rarely see him smiling. However, and contrary to all our expectations, we have seen a completely different person at home and among his family. As a matter of fact, the spirit of joy is present but with discipline, specially that his one-year-old son Rio and three-year-old daughter, Nodoka, did not leave him during the time we spent with them and with a big smile on the faces of the whole members of the family.
Where did you learn English?
My friend is an English teacher and he has been keen to teach me the English language since I joined Al Ain Club. Indeed, I could feel it day by day that I markedly improve in English.
What are the Arabic words you know?
“Salmu Alikum”, “Yalla Shabab”, “Shukran”, “Mabrouk”, “Inshallah” and some other words that are frequently used by the players in the changing room and during the training sessions and cannot remember them right now.
What about your relationship with social media platforms?
My official account on social media is on Instagram. Personally, I have the desire to communicate with the fans but most of them speak and comment in Arabic which is normal. This is why I should learn Arabic. I have to say here that Al Ain fans are so classy and so keen to support and stand by their team. They also are professional in communicating with the purple hearts; a thing which I really like and so impressed with it.
What are you ambitions with Al Ain FC?
I totally understand what 2018 means to Al Ain. It is the 50th Anniversary of the club, but I have to say that the real observation of such occasions by big football clubs are always associated with great achievements. This is why we are so determined to regain the title of the AFC Champions League and win all the titles of the local championships. It is indeed all the Ainawis’ ambition just to make it an exceptional celebration.
Why did you initially refuse to carry out the surgical operation after your injury in Al Wahda match?
Actually, at that time I did not speak any languages except Japanese. Therefore, I preferred to have that surgery in Japan just to know the details of the operation and medical treatment. Conversely, I received great attention at Al Jimi Hospital and my national team’s doctor advised me to do it here. Also, what made it easy for me is the significant presence of the officials of the Embassy of Japan along with my colleagues and the loyal fan boosted my feelings that I am at home among my family. Of course, all went well and as expected. I would like to avail this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation for the staff of Al Jimi Hospital and all members of my Ainawi family.
A memorable goal!
My goal I scored against Shabab Al Ahli Dubai this season as it was the winning goal at a very critical time, besides it was my first goal in AGL.
What are your favorite places to visit in your free time?
I believe Al Ain is a green beautiful city and has stunning touristic places. My family loves to go to Jabal Hafeet, Al Ain Zoo, Green Mubazzara along with the shopping centers in the city.
Your favorite non-Japanese meal?
As a matter of fact, since we arrived here we all agreed that Shawarma is the best and delicious meal.
Your favorite international club?
I am fan of Barcelona
Best foreigner on our league?
There are several notable foreigners, but I think Caio, Berg and El Shehata are the best.
Best Emirati player!
Undoubtedly, he is “Amoory”
The Affectionate Father
Shiotani’s wife, Chilhiro, said that Shiotani is a perfect husband in the whole sense of the word and a good and loving father of his family. He is committed to his duties towards all the family members.
On attending Al Ain’s matches, Chilhiro said: “I’m so keen to attend my husband’s matches from the stands of the stadium. However, I find it difficult at attend away matches because my kids are still young and they need attentiveness and care, so I watch it on television. However, I am always there to attend matches hosted at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, in addition to training sessions held at Khalifa bin Zayed Stadium.
