recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Nagisa Akutsu

* Anime Visual
* Manga

**Nagisa Akutsu** is a Second year high school student, playing as center back and captain for Tokyo City Esperion Youth A-team.

## Appearance & Personality

The only one of his generation to pass the selection process, he has been a regular first-team defender since his freshman year. He is stoic and has a rough temperament, and often clashes with his teammates. He is not happy with Ashito, whom he confronted during the selection process, and after joining the team, he always tries to crush him.

## Abilities

As a centre-back, Nagisa is a very powerful defender, showcasing immensive defensive range at his position. With his knowledge of defense, he is also able to teach a near-complete beginner an intermediate level of defense after he has learned the basics from his contemporaries in B Team. The control of the defense is left to him, with the full-backs to be used at his beck and call, and with them, he is able to plug any gaps in the defensive area, with other players on offense seeing it as enormous pillars in place.

With his physical build, he is a tough centre back, not allowing any attempt at offense made when he is on the pitch. He is also able to contend physically in a head-to-head with another world-class player, Tripone, without being knocked aside by the latter's power.

Even though he is a bulky and strong defender, he is fast enough to reach the other side of the field when initiating offense, displaying abilities not unlike that of a forward or an attacking midfielder.
Guide to Matches

## Introduction

There are 3 Article Pages regarding Matches (excluding this introduction page):

* Find Match (Which Chapter)
* Match Results
* Match Progress

And 1 Category Page:

* Category: All Matches

You can choose to enter these 4 pages directly from the Navigation Menu at the top of the wiki.

## Find Match (Which Chapter)

*Main article: Find Match (Which Chapter)*
With this page, you can find out which chapter contains the match you're looking for, without being spoiled about the match results.

Note that this page contains **only the matches where panels of them are drawn**, i.e. excluding matches where only scores are mentioned.

## Match Results

*Main article: Match Results*
Includes final scores and goalscorers (if mentioned).

Note that this page contains **all matches**, i.e. including matches where only scores are mentioned.

## Match Progress

*Main article: Match Progress*
Dipped out of the manga in the middle of a game, and now you're back and can't remember where the score's at? This is the page for you.

In this page, scores and goalscorers are recorded at the end of every chapter, so that you can quickly check the score and then continue on to the next chapter. However, all chapters are listed together, so you might accidentally see the score for the next chapter. If you want to see the final score, click on the Spoiler Alert button.

Note that this page contains **only the notable matches**, i.e. matches that continue on for multiple chapters.

## Category: All Matches

*Main article: Category: All Matches*
Interested in the lineup for a certain match? Check out this category.

In this category, **all the pages of notable matches** are listed.
Every page includes all related information on a match, including lineups, subs, final scores, goalscorers, and more.
Fish in Water

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Funabashi Arc

**"Fish in Water"** (水 () を得 () た魚 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 187 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 38th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 38, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
The J-Youth's Privilege

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 5

**"The J-Youth's Privilege"** (J (ジェイ) ユースの特権 (とっけん) , *TBA*) is Chapter 23 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 32nd issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2015 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 32, 2015* – Comic Vine
Volume 10

* Japanese Cover
* English Cover

This page is about Volume 10 of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on July 28, 2017.

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from top to bottom)*:
 Ryūichi Takeshima, Jun Asari-Marchs, Keiji Togashi *(right)*, Kanpei Kuroda *(left)*, Sōichirō Tachibana, Ashito Aoi, Eisaku Ōtomo

## Volume Summary

The match against Tokyo Musashino Football Club Youths, the current top-ranked team of the Tokyo Metropolis League, is underway! Team Esperion has resolved to utilize long balls against Musashino’s high press, but is that enough to counter Musashino’s formidable defences? Just as the team falls into despair, Tachibana makes a breakthrough! How will the clash between him and his former teammates unfold?

## Chapters

* 095. **Direct Soccer** (ダイレクト・サッカー, *TBA*)
* 096. **Adjustments** (修正, *TBA*)
* 097. **Strong Leadership** (鉄の統率, *TBA*)
* 098. **Marking Time** (Marking Time, *TBA*)
* 099. **The Ones With a Stronger Will** (意志を統べる者, *TBA*)
* 100. **Over the Top** (Over The Top, *TBA*)
* 101. **Thumbs Up** (サムズ・アップ, *TBA*)
* 102. **Red Hot Blood** (RED HOT BLOOD, *TBA*)
* 103. **High Line Net** (ハイ・ラインの網, *TBA*)
* 104. **Like a Demon** (修羅の如く, *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
2. ↑ *Ao Ashi Volume 10* – Shogakukan Comic
Wind of Change

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 14

**"Wind of Change"** (Wind ()  of ()  Change () , *TBA*) is Chapter 81 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 2nd and 3rd merger issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 2–3, 2017* – Comic Vine
Summary

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 3

**"Summary"** (総 (そう) 括 (かつ) , *TBA*) is Chapter 18 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 26th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2015 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 26, 2015* – Comic Vine
High Line Net

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 20

**"High Line Net"** (ハイ・ラインの網 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 103 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 32nd issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 32, 2017* – Big Comic Bros
Makoto Kenzaki

**Makoto Kenzaki** (剣崎真琴, *Kenzaki Makoto*) is a supporting character in **Ao Ashi: Brother Foot**. He is the Athletica Club Ehime's Youth Manager.

## Trivia

#### Etymology

* The name **Makoto** means "real, genuine" (真) (**ma**) and "Japanese harp" (琴) (**koto**).
* Makoto's surname **Kenzaki** means "sword, blade, saber, bayonet, sting, clock hand" (剣) (**ken**) and "cape, peninsula" (崎) (**saki**/**zaki**).
Hana's Recollection

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 6

**"Hana's Recollection"** (花 () の追 () 憶 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 35 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 48th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2015 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 48, 2015* – Comic Vine
Musashino Youth

## Gallery

 (武蔵の 用ｔｈ, *Zaohangshu*?) is a football youth club based in Tokyo, that is one of the main rivals of the Tokyo City Esperion FC Youth B Team.

Kaneda and Nakano, former teammates of Ashito Aoi during the selection trials, are in this team.

### Members

* Ibrahimovic (GK) (1)
* Madoka (DF) (2)
* Sakai (DF) (13)
* Mistuya (DF) (26)
* Nakano (DF) (27)
* Mikami (MF) (7)
* Gotou (FW) (9)
* Mutou (MF) (10) (Captain)
* Shiomaki (FW) (11)
* Ishikura (MF) (18)
* Akinori Kaneda (FW) (29)
Results

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 3

**"Results"** (合 (ごう) 否 (ひ) , *TBA*) is Chapter 19 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 27th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2015 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 27, 2015* – Comic Vine
Nanami Shiina

**Nanami Shiina** (椎名 ななみ, *Shīna Nanami*) is a minor character in **Ao Ashi** and a supporting character in it's spin-off, **Ao Ashi: Brother Foot**. She is a former classmate of Ashito Aoi and the underclassman of Shun Aoi in their current school.

## Etymology

* Nanami's surname **Shiina** means "oak, mallet" (椎) (**shii**) and "name, noted, distinguished, reputation" (名) (**na**).
Turn (Episode)

## Theme Songs

### Ending

Color Lily's Love Letter

**"Turn"** (転 () , *TBA*) is Episode 13 of the *Ao Ashi* anime TV series, an adaptation of the *Ao Ashi* manga series and directed by Akira Satō. This episode is Episode 13 in Season 1, which aired in 2022.

## Summary

During the celebration dinner for the victorious match against Seikyo High, a soccer game comes on the TV at the BBQ restaurant, showing Kuribayashi making his J1 debut. Around the time Kuribayashi finishes his interview for his incredible play, Mibu receives a call from Date, telling him that there will be some member change between the A team and the B team, since Yoshitsune injured himself. Ashito makes some great plays at the promotion game. Will Ashito be able to move up to the A team?
The Attacking Shape After Five Years

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Funabashi Arc

**"The Attacking Shape After Five Years"** (5 () 年 () 越 () しの攻 () 撃 () 形 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 183 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 32nd issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 32, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
The Esperion Way

## Chapter Information

### Arc

National Team Expedition Arc

**"The Esperion Way"** (エスペリオンの流 () 儀 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 173 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 19th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 19, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
Trepone Rufin (Part 1)

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Funabashi Arc

**"Trepone Rufin (Part 1)"** (トリポネ・ルフィン(1), *TBA*) is Chapter 194 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 47th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 47, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
Match Progress

Dipped out of the manga in the middle of a game, and now you're back and can't remember where the score's at? This is the page for you.

In this page, scores and goalscorers are recorded at the end of every chapter, so that you can quickly check the score and then continue on to the next chapter. However, all chapters are listed together, so you might accidentally see the score for the next chapter. If you want to see the final score, click on the Spoiler Alert button.

Note that this page contains **only the notable matches**, i.e. matches that continue on for multiple chapters.

*Text Formatting: Kickoff, match end, match results, and tournament results will be in **bold**.*

## B Team X Tokyo Division League 1 Saga

### Esperion Beginnings Arc

 Chapters
 41 | Premier League East
 Japan Championship (Senshuken?)
 J-Youth Cup

 Chapters
 41 | **Kickoff** Spoiler Alert
Goalscorer: #23 Matsunaga 　& Unknown A-Team member **Match end** | Spoiler Alert
 **Kickoff**
Goalscorer: #11 Yoshitsune
 42 | Spoiler Alert
Goalscorer: #11 Yoshitsune  Goalscorer: #29 Yūma **Match end** | Spoiler Alert

### Tokyo Metropolis League Kicks Off! Arc

 Chapters
 56 | Goalscorer: Unknown Tosu Black Crows member
 58 | Spoiler Alert
Goalscorer: #10 Deguchi  Goalscorer: #10 Deguchi **Match end** | Spoiler Alert

 Chapters
 61 | Spoiler Alert
Goalscorer: #33 Ashito ← Assist: #36 Ōtomo
Goalscorer: #22 Taira Nakamura (Mentioned)  Goalscorer: #26 Kuroda ← Assist: #33 Ashito (Mentioned)**Match end** | Spoiler Alert
Like a Demon

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 20

**"Like a Demon"** (修 () 羅 () の如 () く, *TBA*) is Chapter 104 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 33rd issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 33, 2017* – Big Comic Bros
How to Spend a Day Off (Part 1)

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 7

**"How to Spend a Day Off (Part 1)"** (休 () 日 () のすごしかた(1), *TBA*) is Chapter 43 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 6th and 7th merger issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2016 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 6–7, 2016* – Comic Vine
Jinbachi Oshita

**Jinbachi Oshita** (大下 神八, *Ōshita Jinbachi*) is a supporting character in **Ao Ashi: Brother Foot**. He is the Head of Youth Development at Athletica Club Ehime.

## Etymology

* The name **Jinbachi** means "god, deity" (神) (**jin**) and "eight" (八) (**hachi**/**bachi**).
* Jinbachi's surname **Oshita** means "big, great" (大) (**o**) and "under, below" (下) (**shita**).
L

## Chapter 133

L

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Kashiwa Business Arc

**"L"** (L () , *TBA*) is Chapter 133 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 18th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2018 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 18, 2018* – Big Comic Bros
Volume 5

* Japanese Cover
* English Cover

This page is about Volume 5 of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on April 28, 2016.

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from left to right)*:
 Nagisa Akutsu, Ashito Aoi, Kenta Yoshitsune, Sōichirō Tachibana

## Volume Summary

Ashito has lost badly in his first official J-Youth club match, but undeterred by his defeat, he lowers his pride to seek help from the coach who refuses to acknowledge him. Meanwhile, the A-team is back from training camp, and the youth club finally begins training in earnest with everyone present—starting with an A-team versus B-team match! Despite having to face one unexpected obstacle after another, Ashito will not let anything hinder his momentum!

## Chapters

* 040. **A (Part 1)** (A(1), *TBA*)
* 041. **A (Part 2)** (A(2), *TBA*)
* 042. **A (Part 3)** (A(3), *TBA*)
* 043. **How to Spend a Day Off (Part 1)** (休日のすごしかた(1), *TBA*)
* 044. **How to Spend a Day Off (Part 2)** (休日のすごしかた(2), *TBA*)
* 045. **Scene at the Day of the Entrance Ceremony** (入学式当日の風景, *TBA*)
* 046. **No Compromises** (譲れないこと, *TBA*)
* 047. **Tokyo Metropolis League Match 1 – Seikyō High School** (東京都リーグ第1節 成京高校戦, *TBA*)
* 048. **Emergency Half-Time Meeting** (HT・緊急ミーティング, *TBA*)
* 049. **Thinking Wave** (思考の波, *TBA*)
* 050. **Eye to Eye** (EYE TO EYE, *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
2. ↑ *Ao Ashi Volume 5* – Shogakukan Comic
First Fan (Episode)

## Episode Information

### Adapted From

Chapter 23 – 26
Chapter 27 (p. 1–14)

## Theme Songs

### Ending

Blue Diary

**"First Fan"** (最 () 初 () のファン, *TBA*) is Episode 6 of the *Ao Ashi* anime TV series, an adaptation of the *Ao Ashi* manga series and directed by Akira Satō. This episode is Episode 6 in Season 1, which aired in 2022.

## Summary

Heartened by Noriko's support, Ashito sets his foot in Tokyo City Esperion once again. A couple of Esperion fans speak to him before he is reunited with Ohtomo and Tachibana. Yuma and Asari, who are promoted from the junior youth, join them at the dorm, but one new member hasn't shown up.
Timeline

Dates of events that took place are gathered from the manga. Birthdates of characters are gathered from the official anime website. Birthyears of characters are estimated.

In Chapter 24 of the manga, on the day of the newcomers' arrival at the Tokyo City Esperion Clubhouse, Sōichirō Tachibana signed the date "2015.3.15" when Esperion fans asked for their signatures.

In Chapter 25 of the manga, Ashito Aoi held the official 2014 yearbook in his hands, which is said to be last year's yearbook.

It's concluded that the majority of the series took place during 2015 - 2016, and Ashito Aoi is estimated to be born in 1999.

## Timeline

### 2015

* **March**:
	+ **15th**: Ashito arrives at Tokyo Station.
* **April**: Tokyo Premier League is starting.
* **July**:
	+ **3rd**: Ashito turns 16 years old.
* **September**: 4 B-Team players retired.
* **November**: Tokyo Premier League is nearing its end.
Your Team

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 20

**"Your Team"** (お前 () のチーム, *TBA*) is Chapter 106 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 35th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 35, 2017* – Big Comic Bros
From Now (Episode)

## Episode Information

### Adapted From

Chapter 111 (p. 12–18)
 Chapter 112 – 117
 Chapter 119 (p. 3–4)

## Theme Songs

### Ending

Color Lily's Love Letter

**"From Now"** (ここから, *TBA*) is Episode 24 of the *Ao Ashi* anime TV series, an adaptation of the *Ao Ashi* manga series and directed by Akira Satō. This episode is Episode 24 in Season 1, which aired in 2022.

## Summary

Thanks to Ashito's great bird's-eye view, Esperion B team succeeds in bringing down the defense of Musashino and scores a tie-goal. Esperion gains the momentum, while Musashino is confused by Ashito's flexible play. Kaneda can't hide his frustration at seeing just how much Ashito has improved. The desperate battle between the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan League, Musashino, and the challenger, Esperion: Who will win in the end...?
Tatsuya Fukuda

* Anime Key Visual
* Manga

**Tatsuya Fukuda** (*福田達也; Fukuda Tatsuya*) is a supporting character in **Ao Ashi**. He is a former professional footballer and the coach of Tokyo City Esperion FC's Youth Football Team who recruited Ashito.

## Appearance & Personality

Tatsuya is a tall, of average slim build, man in his early 30s. In the present his hair is dark and unkempt, reaching to just past his ears. He has facial hair, notably a thin mustache and beard, and is often seen wearing tracksuit joggers or slacks (fashioned with a belt) and a shirt (usually white though he has been shown to wear black ones). While coaching he is seen in his Coach kit, consisting of a black shirt, lined with white along the sleeves and knee length shorts. Sometimes he is depicted with amber eyes, other times he has been shown to have green ones. Tatsuya is often seen with an all-knowing sly smile on his face and a calculative calm aura.

When he was younger, Tatsuya has been shown to have lighter hair, cut short around the sides yet left longer on top. He does not have any facial hair and is of a smaller frame and build.

## Plot Overview

### Early Life

He was born in Ehime, Japan and attended a prestigious high school in Tokyo where he ended up joining the J-League's Tokyo City Esperion FC at the age of 18 and became a regular at 20. Sometime during his J-League career he met and fought Seikichi, and Saejima from Aomori Seiran. At 23 he left Japan to play overseas where he was signed by Sabadell FC who had been recently promoted to Spain's top division, La Liga. He is implied to have met Morino Hideyuki sometime during his time in Spain.

A while later, his mother married Hana Ichijo's father and he became an older step-brother to her.

He is a former midfielder.

## Abilities

He likely also has great vision, just like Ashito Aoi, because many people have said that Aoi reminded them of Fukuda
Three and a Half Years Ago (Part 2)

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 16

**"Three and a Half Years Ago (Part 2)"** (3 () 年 () 半 () 前 () (2), *TBA*) is Chapter 90 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 14th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 14, 2017* – Comic Vine
Volume 8/Junior Version

This page is about Volume 8 of the *Ao Ashi Junior Version* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on June 17, 2022.

 The content of the Junior Version is the same as that of the original version of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, only adding furigana for the text, and including pages of bonus color articles for people to "read to get better at soccer."

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from left to right)*:
 Eisaku Ōtomo, Ashito Aoi, Sōichirō Tachibana

## Volume Summary

Ashito’s first official match after switching to the fullback position is spent warming the bench, but he doesn’t let that get him down, choosing instead to work on mastering the head turning exercises he had seen Kuribayashi doing. As he does, he realizes that he is on the cusp of grasping something that may lead to a brand new way of playing for him. Will he make the breakthrough in time to help his team towards victory?!

## Chapters

* 073. **Just Like You** (お前みたいに, *TBA*)
* 074. **At the North Entrance of Mitaka Station (Part 1)** (三鷹駅北口にて(1), *TBA*)
* 075. **At the North Entrance of Mitaka Station (Part 2)** (三鷹駅北口にて(2), *TBA*)
* 076. **Happy** (嬉しい, *TBA*)
* 077. **Tokyo Metropolis League Match 7 – Tama Sports University High School** (東京都リーグ第7節 多摩体育大学付属高校戦, *TBA*)
* 078. **Two Instructions** (二つのコーチング, *TBA*)
* 079. **Super Class** (超級, *TBA*)
* 080. **Choice** (選択, *TBA*)
* 081. **Wind of Change** (Wind of Change, *TBA*)
* 082. **Where You Were At** (お前がいたとこ, *TBA*)
* 083. **Dejected Face** (浮かない顔, *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

### Junior Version Bonus Color Articles

*Category: Volume Extras (Junior Version Bonus Color Articles)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
Red Hot Blood

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 20

**"Red Hot Blood"** (RED ()  HOT ()  BLOOD () , *TBA*) is Chapter 102 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 30th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 30, 2017* – Big Comic Bros
If It Weren't for These Two

## Chapter Information

### Anime Episode(s)

Episode 22
Episode 23

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 20

**"If It Weren't for These Two"** (この二 () 人 () でなければ, *TBA*) is Chapter 105 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 34th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 34, 2017* – Big Comic Bros
Volume 4

* Japanese Cover
* English Cover

This page is about Volume 4 of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on January 29, 2016.

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from left to right)*:
 Sōichirō Tachibana, Keiji Togashi, Ashito Aoi, Eisaku Ōtomo

## Volume Summary

Ashito’s journey in the J-Youth team of Tokyo City Esperion begins, but he quickly realizes the disparity in skill level between himself and his peers who were groomed from young. At his first practice session, the newbies are immediately pitted against each other in an intrasquad match. What will this trial by fire reveal about Ashito, and where will it lead him?

## Chapters

* 029. **The First Youth Match** (ユース初陣, *TBA*)
* 030. **Walk** (WALK, *TBA*)
* 031. **Taunt** (挑発, *TBA*)
* 032. **Pitch White** (真っ白, *TBA*)
* 033. **Ignored** (無視, *TBA*)
* 034. **Natural Enemy** (天敵, *TBA*)
* 035. **Hana's Recollection** (花の追憶, *TBA*)
* 036. **Night Training** (夜練, *TBA*)
* 037. **My Roommate** (同室の男, *TBA*)
* 038. **The Spartan Pompadour** (スパルタリーゼント, *TBA*)
* 039. **A Broader Soccer** (広がるサッカー, *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
2. ↑ *Ao Ashi Volume 4* – Shogakukan Comic
Tokyo Metropolis League Match 8 – Tokyo Musashino FC Youth (Episode)

## Theme Songs

### Ending

Color Lily's Love Letter

**"Tokyo Metropolis League Match 8 – Tokyo Musashino FC Youth"** (東 () 京 () 都 () リーグ第 () 8 () 節 ()  東 () 京 () 武 () 蔵 () 野 () 蹴 () 球 () 団 () ユース戦 () , *TBA*) is Episode 21 of the *Ao Ashi* anime TV series, an adaptation of the *Ao Ashi* manga series and directed by Akira Satō. This episode is Episode 21 in Season 1, which aired in 2022.

## Summary

The game against Tokyo Musashino is the climax of the Tokyo Metropolis League for Esperion B team. Although the team has worked on countermeasures against Musashino, the air is still tense within the team and there's a clear sign of anxiety on the faces of many of them during the warm-up. But right before the game starts, Takeshima disappears from the locker room with his girlfriend, Tae.
Tokyo Metropolis League Match 8 – Tokyo Musashino FC Youth

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 18

**"Tokyo Metropolis League Match 8 – Tokyo Musashino FC Youth"** (東 () 京 () 都 () リーグ第 () 8 () 節 ()  東 () 京 () 武 () 蔵 () 野 () 蹴 () 球 () 団 () ユース戦 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 94 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 19th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 19, 2017* – Comic Vine
Practice Hard

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Nighttime Training Arc

**"Practice Hard"** (Practice ()  Hard () , *TBA*) is Chapter 144 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 33rd issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2018 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 33, 2018* – Big Comic Bros
Please Tell Me

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 11

**"Please Tell Me"** (Please ()  tell ()  me () , *TBA*) is Chapter 70 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 41st issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2016 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 41, 2016* – Comic Vine
Yoichi Kiriki

**Yoichi Kiriki** (*桐木曜一; Kiriki Yōichi*) is a supporting character in **Ao Ashi**.

## Appearance & Personality

He is one year older than Ashito and has been promoted from the junior youth team. He is a midfielder with excellent technique. He has been selected for Japan's national team for his age group, but he does not feel good about the fact that he has always been seen as second best to Kuribayashi in Esperion since his junior youth days.

## Statistics

### Abilities

Ball Control: Kiriki is skilled at keeping the ball dribbling on his feet despite pressure from multiple opponents, and he is also skilled in trapping the ball, able to trap the ball perfectly despite a strong pass and while having his back turned,
The Soccer Ball I Couldn't Kick

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Introduction Arc (Brother Foot)

**"The Soccer Ball I Couldn't Kick"** (蹴 () れなかったサッカーボール, *TBA*) is Chapter 1 of the *Ao Ashi: Brother Foot* series, a manga-spinoff of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 32nd issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2021 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 32, 2021* – Big Comic Bros
Volume 3/Junior Version

This page is about Volume 3 of the *Ao Ashi Junior Version* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on April 18, 2022.

 The content of the Junior Version is the same as that of the original version of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, only adding furigana for the text, and including pages of bonus color articles for people to "read to get better at soccer."

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from left to right)*:
 Ashito Aoi, Unknown Character

## Volume Summary

After proving himself in the tryouts, Ashito Aoi gets accepted into the Tokyo City Esperion FC’s youth development program! However, that would mean moving to Tokyo and leaving behind his family and friends. With his heart set on going pro, Ashito bites the bullet, vowing to become the top player in the world! How will he fare against the formidable soccer giants in Tokyo?

## Chapters

* 019. **Results** (合否, *TBA*)
* 020. **Orange Scenery (Part 1)** (オレンジ色の景色 前編, *TBA*)
* 021. **Orange Scenery (Part 2)** (オレンジ色の景色 中編, *TBA*)
* 022. **Orange Scenery (Part 3)** (オレンジ色の景色 後編, *TBA*)
* 023. **The J-Youth's Privilege** (Jユースの特権, *TBA*)
* 024. **We Meet Again** (再会, *TBA*)
* 025. **The Selected** (昇格生, *TBA*)
* 026. **The Scouted** (スカウト生, *TBA*)
* 027. **Hana Ichijō (Part 1)** (一条 花(1), *TBA*)
* 028. **Hana Ichijō (Part 2)** (一条 花(2), *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

### Junior Version Bonus Color Articles

*Category: Volume Extras (Junior Version Bonus Color Articles)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
Look Out

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 10

**"Look Out"** (見 () 渡 () せる, *TBA*) is Chapter 66 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 36th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2016 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 36, 2016* – Comic Vine
What We Lack (Episode)

## Theme Songs

### Ending

Color Lily's Love Letter

**"What We Lack"** (俺 () 達 () にないもの, *TBA*) is Episode 19 of the *Ao Ashi* anime TV series, an adaptation of the *Ao Ashi* manga series and directed by Akira Satō. This episode is Episode 19 in Season 1, which aired in 2022.

## Summary

The B team ends the match with Tama Sports U. Next match is against Musashino, currently the first place of the League and also Tachibana's old team. However, Tachibana doesn't feel confident enough to play since he hasn't had notable achievements in the League so far, and asks Date not to play him in the match against Musashino. Ashito and others bring Tachibana along to observe Musashino's game. Team Musashino, which includes Kaneda and Nakano, who played alongside Ashito at the tryouts, displays an incredible play.
The Final Test Begins

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 2

**"The Final Test Begins"** (最 (さい) 終 (しゅう) 試 (し) 験 (けん) 開 (かい) 始 (し) , *TBA*) is Chapter 9 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 15th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2015 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 15, 2015* – Comic Vine
Surprising Point

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Tokyo V Youth Arc

**"Surprising Point"** (驚 () くべき指 () 摘 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 160 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 2nd and 3rd merger issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 2–3, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
Hana Ichijō (Part 2)

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 5

**"Hana Ichijō (Part 2)"** (一 () 条 ()  花 () (2), *TBA*) is Chapter 28 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 39th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2015 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 39, 2015* – Comic Vine
Volume 9/Junior Version

This page is about Volume 9 of the *Ao Ashi Junior Version* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on July 15, 2022.

 The content of the Junior Version is the same as that of the original version of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, only adding furigana for the text, and including pages of bonus color articles for people to "read to get better at soccer."

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from left to right)*:
 Ashito Aoi, Eito Makimura

## Volume Summary

Esperion is up against Tokyo Musashino Youths, the current top-ranked team of the Tokyo Metropolitan League. However, Ashito and his team will be going up against familiar faces, Kaneda and Nakano, who failed to make it to the Esperion team during the tryouts. Between Ashito, who has lost his way, Tachibana, who has lost his confidence, and Togashi, who is in some unknown conflict with the promoted members… Can the problematic Esperion stand a chance?

## Chapters

* 084. **Coach Satake** (佐竹監督, *TBA*)
* 085. **What We Lack** (俺達にないもの, *TBA*)
* 086. **This Team's** (このチームで一番, *TBA*)
* 087. **Flames of Destiny** (因縁の炎, *TBA*)
* 088. **Best Lineup** (ベストメンバー, *TBA*)
* 089. **Three and a Half Years Ago (Part 1)** (3年半前(1), *TBA*)
* 090. **Three and a Half Years Ago (Part 2)** (3年半前(2), *TBA*)
* 091. **Three and a Half Years Ago (Part 3)** (3年半前(3), *TBA*)
* 092. **The Truly Weak One Is** (本当に弱い奴は, *TBA*)
* 093. **I'll Be Gone for Ten Minutes** (10分だけいなくなる, *TBA*)
* 094. **Tokyo Metropolis League Match 8 – Tokyo Musashino FC Youth** (東京都リーグ第8節 東京武蔵野蹴球団ユース戦, *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

### Junior Version Bonus Color Articles

*Category: Volume Extras (Junior Version Bonus Color Articles)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
Noriko Aoi

* Anime Visual
* Manga

**Noriko Aoi** (青井 紀子, *Aoi Noriko*?) is a supporting character in **Ao Ashi**. She is the family's store owner and the mother of Shun and Ashito.

## Appearance & Personality

Noriko is a middle aged women of average height and build. She is fair skinned with long black hair, brown eyes and red rimmed glasses. In the past her hair was shorter, to her shoulders and she wore a more feminine style, including earrings and hair clips. Also a supporter of her son.

## Plot Overview

Currently, Noriko resides in Ehime with Shun Aoi while Ashito Aoi is away in Tokyo.

## Trivia

* She is left-handed, she was shown to write with her left hand.
Tokyo Metropolis League Match 7 – Tama Sports University High School (Episode)

## Episode Information

### Arc

Fullback Training Arc
 Esperion B vs. Tama Sports Arc

## Theme Songs

### Ending

Color Lily's Love Letter

**"Tokyo Metropolis League Match 7 – Tama Sports University High School"** (東 () 京 () 都 () リーグ第 () 7 () 節 ()  多 () 摩 () 体 () 育 () 大 () 学 () 附 () 属 () 高 () 校 () 戦 () , *TBA*) is Episode 17 of the *Ao Ashi* anime TV series, an adaptation of the *Ao Ashi* manga series and directed by Akira Satō. This episode is Episode 17 in Season 1, which aired in 2022.

## Summary

Ashito and others have an unexpected reunion with Nakano and Kaneda, who played alongside him at the tryouts. After failing the tryouts for Esperion, Nakano and Kaneda joined the current top team in the league, Tokyo Musashino Soccer Club Youth, where Tachibana used to play. While Nakano is happy to see Ashito and others, Kaneda blames Ashito for his failing the tryouts.
The Skies Over at Czech

## Chapter Information

### Arc

National Team Expedition Arc

**"The Skies Over at Czech"** (一 () 方 () 、チェコの空 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 170 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 16th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 16, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
Volume 8

* Japanese Cover
* English Cover

This page is about Volume 8 of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on January 30, 2017.

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from left to right)*:
 Anri Kaidō, Ashito Aoi, Hana Ichijō

## Volume Summary

Ashito’s first official match after switching to the fullback position is spent warming the bench, but he doesn’t let that get him down, choosing instead to work on mastering the head turning exercises he had seen Kuribayashi doing. As he does, he realizes that he is on the cusp of grasping something that may lead to a brand new way of playing for him. Will he make the breakthrough in time to help his team towards victory?!

## Chapters

* 073. **Just Like You** (お前みたいに, *TBA*)
* 074. **At the North Entrance of Mitaka Station (Part 1)** (三鷹駅北口にて(1), *TBA*)
* 075. **At the North Entrance of Mitaka Station (Part 2)** (三鷹駅北口にて(2), *TBA*)
* 076. **Happy** (嬉しい, *TBA*)
* 077. **Tokyo Metropolis League Match 7 – Tama Sports University High School** (東京都リーグ第7節 多摩体育大学付属高校戦, *TBA*)
* 078. **Two Instructions** (二つのコーチング, *TBA*)
* 079. **Super Class** (超級, *TBA*)
* 080. **Choice** (選択, *TBA*)
* 081. **Wind of Change** (Wind of Change, *TBA*)
* 082. **Where You Were At** (お前がいたとこ, *TBA*)
* 083. **Dejected Face** (浮かない顔, *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
2. ↑ *Ao Ashi Volume 8* – Shogakukan Comic
Three and a Half Years Ago (Part 1)

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 16

**"Three and a Half Years Ago (Part 1)"** (3 () 年 () 半 () 前 () (1), *TBA*) is Chapter 89 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 13th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 13, 2017* – Comic Vine
Thumbs Up

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 20

**"Thumbs Up"** (サムズ・アップ, *TBA*) is Chapter 101 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 29th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 29, 2017* – Big Comic Bros
Premier League Match 13 – Tokyo Vans Youth

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Tokyo V Youth Arc

**"Premier League Match 13 – Tokyo Vans Youth"** (プレミアリーグ第 () 13 () 節 ()  東 () 京 () VANS () ユース戦 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 153 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 46th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2018 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 46, 2018* – Big Comic Bros
Substitution

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Kashiwa Business Arc

**"Substitution"** (交 () 代 () 枠 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 128 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 12th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2018 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 12, 2018* – Big Comic Bros
Shuu Asami

**Shuu Asami** (浅見 修, *Asami Shū*) is a supporting character in **Ao Ashi: Brother Foot**. He is the Head Coach for Athletica Club Ehime's Youth team.

## Etymology

* The name **Shuu** means "discipline, study, conduct oneself well, master" (修).
* Shuu's surname **Asami** means "shallow" (浅) (**asa**) and "see, hopes, chances, idea, opinion, look at, visible" (見) (**mi**), which literally means "shallow view, superficial idea" altogether.
Gratitude

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 21

**"Gratitude"** (礼 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 116 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 48th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2017 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 48, 2017* – Big Comic Bros
Volume 7/Junior Version

This page is about Volume 7 of the *Ao Ashi Junior Version* manga series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This volume was published on June 17, 2022.

 The content of the Junior Version is the same as that of the original version of the *Ao Ashi* manga series, only adding furigana for the text, and including pages of bonus color articles for people to "read to get better at soccer."

## Cover Illustration

* Characters *(from left to right)*:
 Taiyō Fujinaga, Ashito Aoi

## Volume Summary

Despite Ashito’s stunning performance in the A-team promotion match, Fukuda reveals his real plans for Ashito—to have him permanently switch over to play as a defender! His dream of playing the forward position dashed, Ashito now wavers in his determination to become a professional soccer player. Will the friends and teammates help him overcome this test and stay the course?

## Chapters

* 062. **Piece** (PIECE, *TBA*)
* 063. **The Intentions of the Coaches** (指揮者達の思惑, *TBA*)
* 064. **It's Just Soccer** (たかがサッカー, *TBA*)
* 065. **Returning to the Dorms** (帰寮, *TBA*)
* 066. **Look Out** (見渡せる, *TBA*)
* 067. **Confined** (不自由, *TBA*)
* 068. **Where I Ought to Be** (いるべき場所, *TBA*)
* 069. **Aware** (自覚, *TBA*)
* 070. **Please Tell Me** (Please tell me, *TBA*)
* 071. **Neck** (首, *TBA*)
* 072. **Ant** (蟻, *TBA*)

## Extra Pages

*Category: Volume Extras (Original Version)*
TBA

### Junior Version Bonus Color Articles

*Category: Volume Extras (Junior Version Bonus Color Articles)*
TBA

## References

1. ↑ *Ao Ashi Official English Release* – Shogakukan Asia
Two Instructions

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 13

**"Two Instructions"** (二 () つのコーチング, *TBA*) is Chapter 78 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 51st issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2016 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 51, 2016* – Comic Vine
Story Arcs/Brother Foot

*Ao Ashi: Brother Foot*, a manga spin-off of the Japanese manga series *Ao Ashi*, is broken into story arcs. The following are the arc names, a description of the arc's plot, and the chapters they comprise.

**Note:** Most story arcs are fan-made or community-made names to better organize the series. They are *not* official names.

### Introduction Arc

* 1. **The Soccer Ball I Couldn't Kick**
* 2. **My Club**

### Athletica Club Ehime Tryouts Arc

* 3. **Bewilderment and Ruthlessness**
* 4. **Stinging Feeling**
* 5. **Tirol Chocolate**
* 6. **Departing From Yosan Line Matsuyama Station**
* 7. **Brother Foot**
* 8. **Under the Futami Sun**

## Credits

The content of this page is adapted from the spreadsheet made by Reddit user suemos.

Many thanks for their permission to use this page as reference!
Hana Ichijō/Relationships

## Family

### Tatsuya Fukuda

Hana first became aware of Tatsuya's existence when she was five years old and attended a football match in which he was playing. She "fell in love" with his way of playing and admired him greatly. When their families joint together and Tatsuya became her step brother, she took on a helpful younger sister role and followed him into the football world to pursue her own dreams of being a sports surgeon.

## Friends or crushes

### Ashito Aoi

Hana and Ashito initially met at the youth try outs when he accidentally bumped into her. She had heard a lot about the 'kid from Ehime' from her step brother, Fukuda and so her expectations were high. At first, Hana seemed skeptical about Ashito and seemed to find him annoying, not worth her time or up to Esperion's skills, but when she witnessed his assist in the first tryout match, an assist very similar to one Fukuda had pulled off when he was younger, she became more intrigued and accepting of him. However when she confronted how Ashito had managed to pull it off, she was relieved to hear he had done it on instinct rather than intuition.

Hana is also rather strict with Ashito and constantly tries to encourage him to eat well and do his best. Throughout the progression of the story it is implied that Hana has romantic feelings for Ashito, which is later confirmed when she confesses she loves him to Noriko, who she has a good relationship with. Both Hana and Ashito have shown that they have great respect for one another and often times Hana is the only one that can get through to Ashito when he is being erratic or careless. She has defended him when he was being chastised by his coach, claiming to be Ashito's 'first fan' and to not undermine his abilities. It is also shown how Hana is understanding of Ashito, being able to tell when he is engulfed in anxiety.

Ashito also seems to hold feelings for Hana as whenever she comes to watch his matches, he becomes more energised and determined. He has told her that she is cute and that he loves spending time with her and having her around.
The Truly Weak One Is (Episode)

## Episode Information

### Adapted From

Chapter 88 (p. 8–11)
 Chapter 89 – 92

## Theme Songs

### Ending

Color Lily's Love Letter

**"The Truly Weak One Is"** (本 () 当 () に弱 () い奴 () は, *TBA*) is Episode 20 of the *Ao Ashi* anime TV series, an adaptation of the *Ao Ashi* manga series and directed by Akira Satō. This episode is Episode 20 in Season 1, which aired in 2022.

## Summary

Esperion B team starts to show some signs of improvement as they face undefeated Musashino in the next match. When the team needs to be united more than ever, Takeshima and Togashi, who are the key defenders of the team, have a huge fight. Tachibana, with a strong resolution that he will do anything he can to win the next match, goes to Yuma to ask him what happened between Togashi and the promoted players in the past.
The New Esperion

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Funabashi Match Preparation Arc

**"The New Esperion"** (新 () 生 () エスペリオン, *TBA*) is Chapter 174 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 20th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 20, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
New Sensation

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Kashiwa Business Arc

**"New Sensation"** (新 () たなる感 () 覚 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 132 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 17th issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2018 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 17, 2018* – Big Comic Bros
Tank vs. Propeller Plane

## Chapter Information

### Arc

Esperion Youth vs. Funabashi Arc

**"Tank vs. Propeller Plane"** (重 () 戦 () 車 () とプロペラ機 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 182 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 31st issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2019 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 31, 2019* – Big Comic Bros
Neck

## Chapter Information

### Novel Chapter(s)

Chapter 12

**"Neck"** (首 () , *TBA*) is Chapter 71 of the *Ao Ashi* series, written and illustrated by Yūgo Kobayashi and based on a concept by Naohiko Ueno. This chapter was published in the 42nd and 43rd merger issue of *Big Comic Spirits*' 2016 series.

## References

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 *Big Comic Spirits No. 42–43, 2016* – Comic Vine