BLUE LOCK CHAPTER 4: NOW OR NEVER
SUMMARY:
Chapter 4 introduces Itoshi Sae, a 17-year-old Japanese midfielder who recently returned from Spain. During an interview, he coldly declares Japanese soccer “third-rate” and refuses to play for the national team, claiming no one in Japan can keep up with his passes. His sole ambition is to dominate the world stage and conquer the Champions League.
While in Japan only to renew his passport, Sae stumbles upon a press conference where the Blue Lock Project is officially unveiled to the public. Ego Jinpachi takes the stage and delivers a radical message: Japan’s reliance on teamwork and humility has prevented them from producing a world-class striker. What they need is an ego driven, selfish player like Messi or Ronaldo, a “hero” who can single-handedly change games and win the World Cup.
Ego explains the First Selection structure: the 300 strikers are divided into 25 teams of 12, competing in round-robin tournaments. Only the top two teams from each group will advance. However, players who display extraordinary individual ability can still progress even if their team fails. His message is unmistakable: a striker’s ego and decisive action define victory.
Inside the facility, Team Z faces their first challenge: organizing themselves. Since every member is a striker, arguments immediately erupt over positions and roles. The team struggles to form even a basic lineup, exposing their lack of unity and coordination.
Amid the chaos, Isagi finds himself doubting whether he truly belongs in such a ruthless environment. Surrounded by confident, talented players, he questions his own abilities. Yet something begins stirring within him: a quiet determination awakened by Bachira’s earlier encouragement and the desire to discover his hidden strength.
The chapter closes with two parallel moments: Sae, intrigued by Japan’s bold gamble, decides to witness whether the country can finally produce someone worthy of his attention. Meanwhile, Isagi silently vows that in this brutal competition, he will be the one who survives and rises to the top.