Exploring the Real-Life Inspiration Behind Blue Lock’s Gagamaru Character

Gagamaru from Blue Lock stands out as one of the most adaptable players within the series, demonstrating proficiency in two different positions. Although no direct inspiration for Gagamaru has been disclosed, there are some reasonable assumptions to be made regarding his looks and playing style.

In terms of physical appearance, Gagamaru bears a resemblance to his favorite real-world player. However, analyzing his gameplay and role on the pitch, he closely mirrors the legendary goalkeeper René Higuita, famously known as El Loco. Similar to Gagamaru, El Loco was renowned for his exceptional goalkeeping skills and remarkable ability to sprint the length of the field, resembling a genuine striker.

Disclaimer: This article may contain spoilers from the Blue Lock manga series, reflecting the author’s opinions.

Gin Gagamaru’s Real-Life Inspiration

Gareth Bale as seen in his Real Madrid Jersey (Image via Instagram)

No official source has confirmed the direct inspiration behind Gagamaru. However, the official Egoist Bible reveals that Gagamaru’s idol is the former Real Madrid player Gareth Bale, who retired in 2023. On a superficial level, Gagamaru and his real-life counterpart share a similar hairstyle.

In terms of gameplay, both athletes exhibit impressive agility and pace, traits typically associated with a winger. Nonetheless, since Bale has never taken on the role of a goalkeeper, he could not definitively serve as the inspiration for Gagamaru.

A stronger case can be made for Gagamaru being inspired by Colombian football legend José René Higuita Zapata. Known as El Loco, Higuita earned his nickname due to his unconventional style of play, most notably his famous scorpion kick goal-saving technique—similar to Gagamaru’s creative goal attempts.

Like Gagamaru, Higuita played as both a striker and a goalkeeper and had long hair that further supports the notion that he may have been the true inspiration behind Gagamaru’s character.

Gagamaru’s Abilities and Skills in Blue Lock, Explained

Gagamaru's role as a goalkeeper (Image via Kodansha) — Gagamaru’s role as a goalkeeper (Image via Kodansha)

Gin Gagamaru was among the first cohort of players to engage in the Blue Lock program following Japan’s World Cup defeat. Initially, Gagamaru began his journey in the program as an attacker, showcasing his quick reflexes and propensity to step up in critical moments. As a result, he was designated as a goalkeeper by Ego Jinpachi before the Blue Lock team faced Japan’s U-20 squad.

Although labeled as a ‘goalkeeper,’ Gagamaru functions more as a goal-poacher, someone who seizes the tiniest opportunities on the field and races toward the goal for a scoring chance. His exceptional reflexes positioned him as an invaluable asset in front of the goal for the U-20 Blue Lock team.

Following the U-20 match, Gagamaru accepted his role as a goalkeeper without hesitation and eventually became the starting goalkeeper for Germany’s Bastard Munchen. While he has yet to capture the spotlight in his club, he remains one of the most proficient goalkeepers showcased in the series.

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