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Who is Sae Itoshi in Blue Lock? Explore his traits, skills in the series and the relationship he shares with Rin.
Blue Lock takes us on an intense journey through the world of football, as Japan creates a project aimed at elevating its level in the sport. Throughout the series, we have met a variety of unique characters pursuing their dreams and ambitions.
One of the most intriguing and complex additions to this list is Sae Itoshi. Despite only majorly appearing for one arc, this character has left a lasting impression, connected to several central themes of the series. So, who is Sae Itoshi in Blue Lock?
Sae Itoshi is Rin’s older brother and is widely known as Japan’s best player who plays for the Spanish team Re Al. He has a profound impact on Rin Itoshi as well as Project Blue Lock when he plays them in the U-20 match. Here is a closer look at his character.
Who Is Sae Itoshi in Blue Lock?
As part of the New Generation World 11, Sae Itoshi is believed to be among the best of the new generation of football players. He is a midfielder who is extremely prideful of his skills, showing harsh honesty to anyone who he believes won’t be of use to him.
At the start, Sae Itoshi had an intense dislike of Japanese football, which paled in comparison to the world level. However, upon hearing of Project Blue Lock, he was instantly interested, leading the Japanese U-20 players against the team from Blue Lock.
Sae Itoshi is arrogant, but it is not unwarranted as he is a prodigious player. He was able to gain Shido’s full potential while controlling the entire field in the match. Due to this, the Japanese players faithfully followed him in spite of his blatant disrespect.
Sae Itoshi’s Relationship With Rin
A major storyline in Blue Lock focuses on the relationship between Rin and Sae Itoshi. Ever since they were young, Rin considered Sae to be his idol and became a striker because of him. Together, they would set the field on fire while promising to reach the top together.
However, once Sae experienced the monstrous talents in the world, he switched from a striker to a midfielder. He coldly cut off his younger brother, telling Rin to not use him as an excuse for playing football.
This was a betrayal of the highest order for Rin Itoshi, who held fierce feelings of rivalry and hatred towards his brother. Even when Rin won a one-on-one battle against Sae in the U-20 match, Sae refused to acknowledge him, causing disappointment yet again.
While this attribute of Sae Itoshi has been subject to a lot of criticism from fans, some believe that he is genuinely unaware of his brother’s emotions. His straightforward nature might just make him say what he thinks, rather than putting up pretenses.
There are also theories that Sae is hoping to push Rin into evolving through their rivalry. This would be similar to what Itachi did for Sasuke, where the older brother still actually loves his younger brother.
While there doesn’t seem to be any positive feelings between the two for now, this has remained one of the most engaging sub-plots of Blue Lock.
Sae Itoshi’s Skills
Sae Itoshi might have switched from a striker to a midfielder, but that is no testament to his skills. Considered the best in Japan, he is one of the best players in the series, showcasing extraordinary ability.
Sae is primarily a playmaker, controlling the field and making efficient passes and dribbles to win. With his Metavision, it gives him a comprehensive view of the field, greatly enhancing his abilities.
He is also extremely analytical in nature, accurately gauging his opponent before making his move. This is the core of his counter-dribbling which could effortlessly pass through seasoned defenders. Having played in Spain, he has perfected his basics as well as the more advanced skills.
These include perfect shots and passes at a rapid speed, ensuring goals are achieved. His signature move is the nutmeg, where he knocks the ball in between his opponent’s legs. This is considered a humiliating move in football, which shows how Sae mentally attacks other players as well.
His sense of the game and capacity to bring out the best in others have made him one of the most recognizable names in Blue Lock.
Is Sae Itoshi a Better Player than Isagi?
Isagi has been making great strides towards his goal of becoming the best. In the recent chapters of the Blue Lock manga, he had moments where he overtook Kaiser, a member of the New Generation World 11 similar to Sae. His Metavision, Flow, and powerful shots have many wondering whether the protagonist has overtaken Japan’s best player.
Unfortunately, Isagi has yet to become a better player than Sae Itoshi. This is of no fault of his own, but rather that the midfielder simply has more experience. Sae is a consistent player who can prop up his entire team, achieving perfect results.
Isagi is undoubtedly talented, possibly even being at the level of the New Generation World 11, but his football style has been countered several times by other characters. While he takes a long time to finally formulate victory, Sae has a clear vision right from the very beginning.
Nevertheless, rather than being competitors, Sae has expressed his admiration for Isagi. After the U-20 match, he expressed how Isagi would change Japan’s football. Hence, it is highly likely that the two will be playing together in the future, allowing the protagonist to unlock another level.
Conclusion
Sae Itoshi is a fascinating character in Blue Lock, embodying the challenges of pursuing greatness in the world of football. His exceptional skills, complex relationship with his brother Rin, and unwavering ambition make him a central figure in the series.
While he has yet to appear in the manga since the U-20 Arc, many fans are looking forward to the return of this player.
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