Blue Lock, created by Muneyuki Kaneshiro, has become the latest sensation in the animanga world’s sports genre. The series has captivated audiences with its in-depth exploration of football and all its complex elements, solidifying its position as the most popular sport on the planet.
Additionally, the show’s numerous characters, inspired by actual football players, captured the affection of viewers with their distinct personalities and abilities. One standout character is Chigiri Hyoma, nicknamed the Red Panther due to his blazing speed and vibrant reddish-pink hair.
Despite speculation that his character was influenced by Welsh footballer Gareth Bale because of their similarly explosive speed, Kaneshiro clarified that Chigiri was actually modeled after Japanese player Ryo Miyaichi.
Blue Lock’s Chigiri is based on Ryo Miyaichi
Chigiri Hyoma’s character draws inspiration from Japanese superstar Ryo Miyaichi, who was born into a family with a strong sports background. His father and brother were both well-known figures in basketball and football. Miyaichi started playing football during his elementary school years at Sylphid F.C. in Nagoya.
In 2010, he successfully trialed for Arsenal FC and caught the eye of manager Arsene Wenger, resulting in him signing a professional contract only a year later. After joining Arsenal, he was temporarily loaned to Dutch club Feyenoord. His impressive abilities earned him the nickname “Ryodinho”(in reference to Ronaldinho) and also the title of the Japanese Messi by the Dutch media.
During the 2011-12 season, he had a brief stint with Arsenal before sustaining an injury in November of that year. Following his recovery, he went on loan to Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Athletic before rejoining Arsenal in 2013.
After being loaned out once again, this time to FC Twente, he returned and signed for German side FC St. Pauli. However, his six-year tenure at St. Pauli was marred by injury. In 2021, he returned to Japan and joined Yokohama F. Marinos.
Chigiri and Miyaichi: A Comparison of Playing Styles
In Blue Lock, it is evident that Chigiri possesses a playing style reminiscent of Miyaichi’s. Chigiri is classified as an Archetype: Counter Attacker, utilizing their speed to outmaneuver defenders and create unpredictable scoring chances at any given moment.
Moreover, these players are equipped with a particular skill in shooting, allowing them to capitalize on any opportunities created. They are known to either sprint towards long passes directed at them or use their speed to dribble the ball themselves.
Chigiri’s most effective skill was his incredible speed. His naturally strong leg muscles and impressive footwork allowed him to swiftly move down the field. Utilizing these abilities, he was able to easily evade defenders and maneuver through the field.
Together with Miyaichi, who was a skilled winger with the ability to rapidly move down the field and skillfully navigate around opponents, Wenger noted that he possessed a natural aptitude for technique, excellent balance, and exceptional speed, and excelled in passing and crossing.
Finally, with the guidance of Chris Prince, Chigiri honed a unique style that incorporated the various skills and techniques he acquired while training in Blue Lock. His method involved deliberately selecting his desired shooting area, maneuvering his way inside to reach it, and delivering a precisely aimed shot towards the goal.
This is similar to the strategy utilized by numerous players, including Miyaichi, who often dribbles towards the outer edge of the penalty area before swiftly changing direction and skillfully shooting the ball into the upper corner of the goal.
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