Japanese midfielder Mamoru Izawa, originating from Shutetsu before joining Nankatsu throughout his school years, represents Japan's national youth teams and school competitions, typically wearing jersey #8 for both Japan and Nankatsu MS. He specializes in headers and aerial duels, excelling as a playmaking attacking midfielder. His technical teamwork with Teppei Kisugi and Takasugi Taki forms the "Shutetsu Trio," renowned for rapid-passing combinations culminating in the "Shutetsu Trio One-Two" technique used across tournaments. Izawa also possesses the "Five Meter Diving Header," utilizing his jumping ability for offense. While primarily a midfielder, Izawa demonstrates defensive aptitude and commitment, exemplified by sustaining an injury executing a sliding tackle against Napoleon during the Japan-France match. His versatility allows him to function as a utility player, adapting to defensive positions when required. He notably replaced the injured Jito against Denmark in the U-22 Japan team, enabling tactical shifts, a flexibility valuable throughout Asian preliminaries, reinforcing his role as a multipositional asset. Izawa progressed from substitute to key contributor internationally. In the Junior Youth arc, he served as a substitute for Japan's U-16 team, earning playing time as both starter and reserve while showcasing defensive capabilities during the International Junior Youth Championship. Later, in World Youth tournaments, he transitioned to a regular midfielder for Nankatsu SC and a substitute for Japan during the Asian Cup and World Tournament. His involvement in the Universal Youth tournament as part of All Japan Youth further solidified his trajectory. Nicknamed "Field Soldier" for his adaptable, hardworking approach, Izawa's name etymology—"Mamoru" meaning "protect" and "Izawa" combining "well" and "swamp/marsh"—aligns with his protective midfield and defensive roles.