So, here's the thing about spokons that I don't like: They only focus on their respective sport. Only that. Just that. The sport is the only thing that exists in the world. Those who practice a sport know that isn't true, there is more about than that.
Ao Ashi is about a kid who plays soccer and he's kinda bad but also kinda good, and then he's improving throughout the time he's playing. Nothing new about that, right?
However, Ao Ashi goes beyond the sport. Everybody knows how racist Japan is, right? Do you know how difficult is for black Japanese people? Especially in sports? Japanese people always think they are foreigners. It's awful. Are you aware of how awful is being an Asian person in European soccer? It's horrible. Well, some characters have been through that in the manga. It's pretty harsh to see. I cried during a particular background story about racism. There were kids involved! It's hard to read.
Moreover, sometimes the manga explains some specific aspects of soccer. What's the difference between Japanese and European soccer? How do youth clubs work? What are the foundations for a young player to succeed? Among others.
That's what I love about Ao Ashi. I don't remember a manga or anime talking about racism or xenophobia like that. It's so weird. The mangaka knows how hostile the soccer environment is. Not everything is nice. Sometimes you struggle, even worse if you are a foreigner or far away from the city.
Don't get me wrong. The manga's main topic is soccer of course. And you will see our main character playing soccer and practicing mostly. But those times when the manga goes beyond that are what I love about Ao Ashi.
Give it a try. You won't regret it.
