Miyashiro's Spanish dream: 'Always wanted to play in world's best league'
Las Palmas' new Japanese striker Taisei Miyashiro reveals his lifelong ambition to play in Spain and his determination to help the club return to La Liga.
Taisei Miyashiro has been unveiled as Las Palmas’ newest signing, becoming only the second Japanese player in the club’s history, with the forward revealing his childhood dream of playing in Spain’s top flight.
‘The world’s best league’
Speaking at his official presentation, where he was joined by the Japanese consul to the Canary Islands, Miyashiro couldn’t hide his excitement about the move:
“Since I was young, I dreamed of playing in the best league in the world,” the forward admitted, clearly chuffed with his new surroundings. “I’m very excited to be here now and also eager to help the team gain promotion to La Liga.”
The striker follows in the footsteps of Kenji Fukuda, who represented Las Palmas back in the 2007-08 campaign, making him just the second Japanese footballer to don the yellow shirt.
Quick decision
Interestingly, Miyashiro revealed the decision to join Las Palmas was a bit of a no-brainer:
“Everyone told me my style fits perfectly with Las Palmas,” he explained. The technical football played by the islanders apparently made it an easy choice for the mobile forward.
What to expect
Sporting Director Luis Helguera described what Las Palmas fans can expect from their new addition:
- A mobile centre-forward
- Comfortable striking with both feet
- Dynamic playing style
- Someone who “has done a lot on his part to be here”
While Helguera sees him primarily as a number nine, Miyashiro himself seems happy to be versatile: “I’m good in front of goal, but I can play in various positions, wherever I get an opportunity. This team is very technical and tactical. I’m sure I can improve at Las Palmas.”
Adapting to Spain
Despite the obvious challenges of adapting to a new country and culture, Miyashiro doesn’t seem fazed. He’s been watching Spanish football “for years” on television and the internet, and has already felt the warmth of his new club.
“I’ve been very well received,” he said. “I was really encouraged by the support from fans when I went out to warm up. I’m delighted.”
With Las Palmas currently pushing for promotion back to La Liga, they’ll be hoping their new Japanese import can provide the spark they need up front to return to the top flight.