In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we want to highlight Red Bull New York II defender Shunya Sakai.
Growing up in Japan, soccer was an important aspect of Sakai’s life as he progressed through the years. However, the defender found inspiration within himself to reach his current position.
“In my personal life, I was practicing because I wanted to get better at soccer and play an active role in the professional world, and I don’t think I was influenced by anyone,” said Sakai. “If I had to say it, I think I have spent every day imagining my ideal self and becoming that person.”
When the 18-year-old first had a soccer ball at his feet, he played for fun. But as the years went by, the sport became more than just a hobby; it became a passion.
“I became obsessed with soccer when I entered the academy of Omiya Ardija at the age of 13,” the defender said. “Until then, even though I was learning soccer, it felt more like a lesson than a hobby. I remember playing with friends and playing soccer games at that time.
“As I got older, my desire to live by soccer and eat soccer became stronger, and it became an essential part of my life. By playing soccer, I began to work hard every day to see the scenery I wanted to see.
“Life without soccer is like a night that never dawns, and it is impossible for me.”
In August 2024, Red Bull bought 100 percent of the shares of Omiya Ardija, a club that currently plays in the J2 League. Sakai learned about the ownership’s existence en route to becoming the first player from the club to sign professionally with another Red Bull club.
“In both the one year in Japan and the last three months in the United States, there are slight differences in the team’s style and environment, but I feel that they have a common philosophy,” Sakai said.
“One thing I can say for sure is that when you have perfected the style of soccer that Red Bull is looking for, that’s when you are ready to go out into the world. I want to grow with Red Bull soccer as my own sustenance.”
When the opportunity to move to Red Bull New York arose, Sakai did not hesitate, despite having to leave his home country.
“Around November last year, I heard about the transfer from Stuart [Webber], the Head of Sport at Omiya Ardija,” the defender said. “I was happy to receive an offer from participating in practice over the summer, and I was very happy to be able to take the challenge and join a Red Bull team overseas for my first year as a professional.
“Basically, if you grew up in Japan, I think it is inevitable to play in Japan, but I chose to take myself to a different environment and find new possibilities.
“I didn’t want to miss this opportunity to be the first to go out into the world.”
While the U.S. and Japan differ significantly off the pitch, the new challenge did not faze Sakai. It has even led to him appreciating the beauty of his home country.
“I was able to communicate with the ball on the pitch, and I was confident in my abilities, so I didn’t have that much trouble,” Sakai said regarding his biggest adjustments since making the move this past season.
“When you go off the pitch, the food and toilets are different, and the environment around you is completely different from Japan.
“Since coming to the United States, I have also realized that Japan is blessed. I think I had a hard time getting used to that aspect of my personal life.”
The move has had some trials for Sakai personally as the defender adjusts to life in a different country. However, when he feels lonely at times, talking to his friends back home in Japan helps keep his mind stable.
At the international level, Sakai has had the opportunity to represent Japan’s youth national teams, an honor for the young defender.
“I was selected for the Japan national team for the first time when I was in U15,” said Sakai. “Carrying Japan on our backs and fighting against the world while carrying it on our backs is a great responsibility.
“Wearing the emblem of the Japanese national team is a pride, a responsibility, and a dream in itself. I want to win the World Cup. We will make efforts to do so.”
Despite being only 18 years old, Sakai has advice for the young players in Japan who may dream of playing overseas one day.
“Japan is blessed, and there is really everything, so I think it is necessary to have patience and the ability to adapt to the environment,” Sakai said.
“We can never survive in terms of soccer alone. In the end, I think your head and mentality will decide everything.
“It is important to envision the future and make an effort, but life can only be lived here and now.”
