Area no Kishi - Episode 5

Mind = Blown

This was more or less a introductory episode to the new arc. A bunch of new characters were introduced, along with the surprising appearance of Kōta. None of them are really interesting or memorable, aside from Araki Ryūichi. His relationship with Suguru, back when he was still fit, still remains a mystery. One flashback depicts them as seemingly good friends while another shows Suguru criticizing Ryūichi. But whatever the true nature of their relationship might have been, the reason why Ryūichi gave up on soccer, and in the process put on some weight, is apparently because of Suguru.

With Suguru now out of the picture, Kakeru is slowly being seen by his peers (i.e. he's not overshadowed by his brother anymore). However, the Aizawa name and the title of "Suguru's [younger] brother" are still continuing to follow him, even to this day. It just goes to show how much of a presence Suguru had on those around him, especially those involved with soccer. He even gets Nana all to himself... for now. As I said earlier, many new characters were introduced this episode - including a few whom are arguably bishōnens. It may not happen soon, but I'm expecting Nana to start dating one of the other guys in the club, causing Kakeru to become jealous. Assuming my guess is correct, this jealously may then fuel him to become even better, possibly even surpassing his deceased brother's skill level. It'll truly be a cliché turn of events if Nana ends up running back to Kakeru after that. For me, I really hope the bulk of this arc, and even the whole story, is not as easily predictable as I make it seem. Twists and turns are sure to make things much more interesting, even if it means breaking from the typical mould for a shōnen sports anime.

A little bit more on Ryūichi: I'm almost certain that he'll return to soccer soon. It may seem like he's determined to stay away from the game but, as seen several times in the episode, he is consistently a spectator at any soccer-related event that is happening at the school. Nana already pointed this out, but I'd also like to note that Kakeru's words definitely triggered something within Ryūichi. Who knows, maybe we'll see him back in action in the next episode? I, for one, wonder if when he'll go back to his old physical form.