Reference

Shunsuke Nakamura, the well-known Japanese footballer, saw notable improvements during the tenure of Brazilian coach Zico with the Japanese national team. Zico's coaching style had several impacts on Nakamura's performance:

1. Technical Development: Zico emphasized technical skills and creativity, which aligned well with Nakamura's playing style. This approach helped Nakamura refine his technical abilities further.

2. Physical Improvement: Zico acknowledged Nakamura's physical development and lauded his overall improvement since 2002. Under Zico’s guidance, there was a notable enhancement in Nakamura's physical fitness, which positively impacted his performance on the field.

3. Confidence and Freedom: Zico’s trust in Nakamura as a key player gave him the confidence to perform at his best. The freedom to express his creativity and take on important roles in the team boosted Nakamura’s performance levels.

4. Mentorship and Guidance: Being a legendary figure in football, Zico provided valuable mentorship to Nakamura. This guidance not only improved Nakamura's on-field performance but also his understanding of the game’s strategic aspects.

Overall, Zico's coaching style, which combined technical enhancement, physical conditioning, and psychological support, played a significant role in elevating Nakamura's game during his national team career.

For more detailed insights, here is a source referencing Zico's views on Nakamura's improvement.