Is Aiku the best defender in Blue Lock? Explored

Modified Nov 11, 2024 02:30 GMT

Oliver Aiku in Blue Lock (Image via 8bit)

Blue Lock's Oliver Aiku has proven to be one of the most skilled and dynamic defenders in the series. On the field, he captivated fans with his unique playstyle and strategic prowess. A prodigy in the sport and the former captain of the Japan U-20 team, Aiku demonstrates an incredible understanding of both defense and offense.

This allows him to predict and counter his opponents' moves with precision. Moreover, his physical stature and sharp instincts make him nearly impenetrable, frustrating even the most talented strikers. After all, as he himself stated, he was originally a striker before becoming a defender.

Considering everything, Oliver Aiku clearly holds his place as the best defender in Blue Lock.

Why Aiku is Blue Lock's best defender

To begin with, there are no defenders as such in Blue Lock. Nearly everyone who showed up for the program was a striker. It is only after progressing through the selection phases that positions began to become clear. This makes Aiku's skill particularly impressive, as he is a natural defender despite starting as a striker. Undoubtedly, this background has helped him further improve his defense.

Aiku stands as a formidable force thanks to his blend of raw talent, strategic intelligence, and psychological insight. He can be seen as a nearly insurmountable wall in defense. The former captain of the Japan U-20 team also boasts a unique blend of physical agility and sharp instincts. This allows him to efficiently anticipate, obstruct, and outmaneuver even the best of strikers’ moves.

His defending goes well beyond just physicality. Aiku's keen knowledge of the game and his superior athleticism allow him to dissect and gauge his opponents’ thought processes. As a result, he positions himself effectively to block attacks before they fully develop. This predictive skill makes Aiku a tough foe, as he doesn't solely rely on defensive tactics.

Furthermore, Aiku’s defensive prowess centers on sharp awareness and adaptability. As seen in Blue Lock, top strikers can easily "devour" defenders. However, Aiku's versatility allows him to adjust to both the game and the striker he faces. Finally, Aiku’s mind games in defense define him as Blue Lock’s best. He exploits the slightest hesitation in his opponents and then easily overpowers them with physicality and intelligence.

Aiku's talents and abilities, explained

Starting off, Aiku's archetype is Libero. In other words, he is a versatile defender who "sweeps" the ball if the defensive line is breached. The position of a sweeper is quite fluid, as compared to other defenders. They are normally quicker and have a slightly smaller physique. Their ability to read the game is vital to their team, and they are confident in possession, capable of making passes and starting plays from the backline.

Aiku is one of Japan's brightest talents. An example of his professionalism is his transition from striker to defender. His physical prowess makes him dominant on the pitch, easily outmuscling Shido Ryusei. Additionally, he possesses Spatial Awareness, enabling him to account for every player. As such, he can quickly detect threats to his goal, reacting almost instantly.

This ability feeds into his reflexes, allowing him to identify the greatest threat to the goal and work to subdue it. By combining his physicality, spatial awareness, and reflexes, Aiku enters Total Defense mode, which is his best and toughest form of defense. In addition, Aiku has shown the ability to enter a Flow State, being able to visualize and feel his side's critical points, which he instantly covers.

Finally, Aiku possesses Metavision. He constantly processes information through both his central and peripheral vision on every player, their positions, and their plays. He unknowingly unlocks Metavision upon entering Flow. Using that, he can shut down plays just as they begin to develop. He shows more growth when he quickly adapts to his new ability and outsmarts Isagi Yoichi and Michael Kaiser.