Jun Misugi is a highly skilled football player first introduced as the captain of Musashi elementary school team, regarded as a football genius on par with Tsubasa Ozora. He lives with an unspecified congenital heart condition that restricts his ability to play full matches without endangering his life, a situation demanding careful management and eventual surgery. Despite his physical limitations, Misugi displays outstanding technical skill, sharp tactical intelligence, and natural leadership. He can analyze opponent formations and influence play even from the sidelines. His style is modeled after Dutch legend Johan Cruyff, and he initially wears the number 14 jersey as tribute. He later transitions from midfielder to libero to better suit both his health and the team’s requirements. Early in his football journey, Misugi’s resolve is tested during a critical elementary school semifinal against Nankatsu, where he chooses to play the full match despite the danger, delivering an exceptional performance even in defeat. This act underscores his profound dedication. He then enters a two-year rehabilitation period supported by Yayoi Aoba, who becomes his romantic partner. Returning for middle school, he continues under a strict 30-minute per match limit. In the Junior Youth arc, Misugi acts as both assistant coach and registered player for the All Japan Jr. Youth team, offering key tactical advice such as repositioning players. He appears as a substitute in matches against Argentina and France during the International Jr. Youth tournament but is unable to participate in the final. After the tournament, he commits to pursuing football alongside medical studies, aspiring to support other athletes with health challenges. Throughout high school, Misugi abstains from play for three years to prioritize his recovery, culminating in successful heart surgery that resolves his condition. He returns to football in the World Youth arc with the Japan Youth team as a libero, marking his comeback with a decisive equalizing Drive Shot against Thailand. He undergoes intense training and establishes himself as a dependable defensive presence, demonstrating a keen understanding of his teammates’ abilities, such as aiding Tsubasa’s Skydive Shot against Mexico. Professionally, Misugi signs with Bellmare Hiratsuka before transferring to FC Tokyo in the J1 League, where he plays as a right midfielder. He earns selection to the Japanese Olympic team, valued for his composure and tactical balance. During the Rising Sun arc, in a match against Germany, he collapses after attempting to block Schneider’s Fire Shot and requires CPR from Tsubasa, but recovers and convinces officials to let him continue under close supervision. Injuries from the incident keep him on the bench for the next match against Spain, where he contributes defensive guidance. Misugi’s techniques include the Slice Shot, Crystal Overhead, Sky Rocket Volley, and Magnificent Dribble, showcasing precision and strategic play. His Glass Ace ability temporarily elevates his performance before declining after 30 minutes, reflecting his historical physical constraints. Off the pitch, Misugi is characterized by kindness, intelligence, and selflessness, often assisting teammates and opponents alike during personal or medical emergencies. His medical training enables him to provide urgent care. His relationship with Yayoi Aoba is a steady presence in his life, with discussions of marriage delayed by health considerations. Misugi’s journey offers an educational perspective for children with congenital heart conditions, illustrating the balance between risk and benefit in sports. His story underscores the value of medical oversight, personal perseverance, and the role of athletics in enhancing quality of life and acceptance of one’s condition.

Titles

Jun Misugi

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