Sato scores on Valencia debut as Japan’s Dragon makes instant impact | OneFootball

Ryunosuke Sato made a flying start for Valencia, the 19-year-old winger scoring on debut in a friendly against Eldense with a fierce effort from the edge of the area.

As reported by AS, in Japan he is known as Ryu, meaning Dragon, and he marked the occasion on social media by noting it was his first match and first goal. He turns 20 in October.

His display also featured a shot against the woodwork, two further efforts on target and several dribble attempts. National boss Hajime Moriyasu handed him a senior debut at a young age, making him the second youngest to debut for the senior side, with only Take Kubo younger.

Carlos Corberán’s staff are working on his defensive understanding, pressing and recovery, and a physical programme aims to add size without losing mobility or speed. Sato chose Valencia’s offer, moving straight into LaLiga rather than using a stepping-stone league such as Belgium, unlike Keisuke Goto, Ryotaro Ito or Rihito Yamamoto, as did Take Kubo.

Javi Guerra is helping his adaptation thanks to their age proximity and English. Staying in a hotel in his early weeks, Sato faces a key season in his development, with the Asian Cup at the end of January. He has five senior caps, missed the World Cup squad, and after the tournament his youth mentor Go Oiwa will take over as national coach.

Source: AS