Ego’s brainchild, Project Blue Lock, was established with the goal of discovering Japan’s top striking talents and utilizing their indomitable egos to propel the country to World Cup success. The project was designed to select and challenge 100 of the nation’s most promising young players, with the potential to change the course of one individual’s life.
Throughout this transformation, it became evident to many players that they were more suitable for positions other than striker. Whether it was in the midfield, defense, or goalkeeper, their skills were showcased more prominently in various areas of the field.
As a result, Blue Lock saw an influx of players who possessed unique defensive abilities, making them highly sought-after by clubs worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at the top defenders and their strengths.
Please note: The views expressed in this article are those of the author.
The Top Defenders of Blue Lock and Their Unique Abilities
Raichi Jingo
Starting off this list is Raichi Jingo, the fiery and passionate player from Blue Lock. He started his journey as a member of Team Z and successfully made it through the Third Selection. Though he initially had an arrogant attitude towards his abilities, he eventually learns to harness his emotions and adapt to the challenges alongside his teammates, ultimately growing as a player.
He is currently a member of Bastard Munchen and is considered the “heart”of the team, playing in the center of the field. His Box-to-Box Archetype allows him to contribute in all areas of the game, although he has primarily been utilized in the defense thus far.
He is able to closely monitor and defend against his targets, causing them trouble and limiting their ability to pose a significant threat to his team.
Gin Gagamaru
Although not specifically trained as a defender, Gin Gagamaru serves as the final line of protection for his team’s goal, taking on the role of goalkeeper. Like his teammates, he entered Blue Lock with dreams of becoming the top striker. However, during the Third Selection, his physical attributes, quick reflexes, and abilities proved him to be a perfect fit for the position of goalkeeper, and he has excelled in this role ever since.
Gin’s versatility is highlighted by his possession of two distinct Archetypes, which vary depending on his position on the field. When playing as a striker, he becomes a lethal Poacher, able to convert even the smallest of chances into goals. Additionally, his remarkable flexibility allows him to excel at executing the Scorpion Kick, making it his signature move.
As previously mentioned, his second Archetype is a goalkeeper, thanks to his ideal physical attributes. His body is like a spring, allowing for explosive reactions and quick responses to the ball. Additionally, his long limbs and body control allow him to effortlessly adapt to any pass or shot.
Jyubei Aryu
Despite being ranked #2 in the Second Selection and known for his eccentric style, Jyubei Aryu excelled as a center-back for the Blue Lock XI. His decision to change positions was undoubtedly a wise one, considering his tall stature and exceptional abilities on the field.
Being a striker, he had the Archetype of Poacher and was also the tallest player at Blue Lock, which was beneficial for his Jumping Power. This attribute enabled him to effortlessly control difficult balls in mid-air using either a header or chest trap.
Additionally, Aryu’s elongated limbs and lean physique provide him with a reach advantage. This allows him to access the ball at a distance that his opponent cannot, enabling him to receive passes before his opponent and extend his leg forward. This skill also aids him in scoring unexpected goals.
Tokimitsu Aoshi
Despite being ranked third in the Second Selection, Tokimitsu Aoshi made a successful transition from a striker to a defender. When first introduced, he displayed nervousness, introversion, and anxiety. He is also renowned for his extensive knowledge and facts about various football players, earning him the title of a “football facts nerd.”
His muscular build perfectly complements his Archetype, Target Man. These players rely on their physicality to create opportunities, whether it be by scoring goals, making space, or holding onto the ball while waiting for support, even under defensive pressure. The term “target”refers to their role as the primary target for their teammates to send long balls to.
Despite being a striker, Tokimitsu’s abilities truly stood out in his role as a defender. His strong build and impressive speed and endurance made him a valuable asset to his defensive team. These attributes enabled him to overpower his opponents or quickly chase them down with aggressive determination.
Niko Ikki
Niko Ikki is one of the most fascinating and youngest players in Blue Lock. While playing for Team Y, he relied solely on his existing abilities to survive. Nevertheless, after being defeated by Isagi Yoichi, he was pushed out of his comfort zone and embarked on a remarkable journey of development. He transitioned from playing center-back for Blue Lock XI to playing as a defensive midfielder for the Ubers.
Niko Ikki’s versatility is unmatched, as he has proven himself capable of excelling in various positions. Despite being a defender, he possesses the ability to outsmart his opponents and anticipate their moves, making him a formidable center-back on the field. His mastery of Spatial Awareness, Watchtower Soccer, and Metavision further enhance his skills.
Having these skills individually, and especially when combined, enables him to efficiently assess the field, pinpoint any problematic areas, and swiftly anticipate the moves of his opponents. His exceptional football intelligence was the key factor in Team Y’s defensive success, and he also played a vital role for the Ubers as the anchor of the team.
Don Lorenzo
Don Lorenzo, a U-20 prodigy defender from Italy in Blue Lock, is known as “Ace Eater.”Despite a tumultuous childhood, he was given a second chance when Marc Snuffy offered him a deal: play for Snuffy and receive help in return. It was during this time that he acquired his iconic golden teeth.
Lorenzo, known as the Archetype Libero in football, plays as a sweeper. He is a versatile defender whose main role is to clean up any balls that get past the defensive line. Compared to other defenders, his position is more fluid. The ability to anticipate and understand the game is crucial for a sweeper.
Lorenzo is the cornerstone of Uber’s defense and is widely regarded as the top U-20 center-back in the world. His skills were on full display when he successfully shut down Michael Kaiser during the Ubers vs Bastard Munchen game. Lorenzo’s unique dribbling technique, known as Zombie Dribbling, involves him moving his upper and lower body independently, making it nearly impossible for opponents to anticipate his movements. This allows him to effortlessly maneuver past defenders by catching them off guard.
Oliver Aiku
Oliver Aiku, who used to be the captain of the Japan U-20 Team, now plays for the Ubers. Despite his talents as a center-back, he did not always play in that position. As a child, his coaches and other adults discouraged his dream of becoming the world’s top striker. However, he persevered and instead focused on becoming the best defender, determined to support and guide others on their journey to becoming the best striker.
Similar to Lorenzo, Aiku is also a Libero or sweeper and fulfills a versatile role in the defense. He is highly regarded as one of Japan’s most promising talents, successfully transitioning from a respected center-forward to a skilled defender.
His strong build gives him a sense of dominance, enhancing his reflexes. He has exceptional Spatial Awareness, allowing him to keep track of all the players on the field. Additionally, his Meta-vision enables him to effectively stop his opponents’ attacks. His Flow State also enhances his one-on-one defending skills, allowing him to anticipate and intercept all of his opponent’s moves, as seen in his successful shutdown of Rin Itoshi’s offense.
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