Ao Ashi follows the story of Ashito Aoi, a middle-school soccer fan living in a small town in Japan. Although talented, his game relies mainly on instinct and exceptional vision of the pitch, but he lacks technique and discipline. One day, he is spotted by Tatsuya Fukuda, a former professional player turned coach, who sees enormous potential in him.

Fukuda invited Ashito to take the selection tests for the junior team at Tokyo City Esperion FC, one of the country’s top training centers. A new chapter begins for Ashito, one of challenge, fierce competition, failure and progress. He’ll have to learn to work as part of a team, to understand the game from a more tactical angle, and above all, to push back his own limits.

Why read Ao Ashi?

⚽ A realistic look at professional soccer: intensive training, strategies, ruthless selection…

🧠 An atypical hero: Ashito lacks the classic fundamentals, but possesses a unique vision of the game.

💥 Intense matches: technical, emotional and breathtaking.

💬 Personal development and team spirit: beyond the sport, this is a true tale of maturity and resilience.