Roberto writes a letter to his former captain in Brazil, expressing his newfound purpose: training Tsubasa, who reminds him of his own lost passion for the game.

Episode 4 of the 2018 Captain Tsubasa anime, titled "," is a pivotal character-driven chapter that establishes the mentor-student bond and explores the tragic backstory of Roberto Hongo. Plot Overview

Roberto identifies Tsubasa as a true "friend of the football," a philosophy that guides Tsubasa throughout the series.

The core drama involves Tsubasa’s mother, Natsuko, discovering a medical envelope from a university hospital. It contains Roberto’s diagnosis of retinal detachment , the condition that forced his abrupt retirement from professional football in Brazil.

Publicly declares his dream to play for the Japanese national team and compete on the world stage, inspired by Roberto’s old Brazilian jersey (#10).

Shown training diligently with his own mentor, Tatsuo, as he remains determined to face Tsubasa in the upcoming inter-school tournament. Themes and Symbolism

Following Nankatsu’s victory in their first team match, Tsubasa begins his new life in the city with his mentor, Roberto Hongo, now living in his home.

The episode contrasts Roberto’s lost career with Tsubasa’s burgeoning one, framing their relationship as a bridge between past tragedy and future hope.