During Matias Almeyda's introductory media conference, the San Jose Earthquakes' new boss tackled many subjects, ranging from player recruitment, to why he took the job and everything in between.
There was a lot of optimism and hard work promised, which is par for the course at these events. But, there was one subject that must be unique to Almeyda's first words in front of the Earthquakes crest: his love of Bushido, a samurai code of honor.
"My philosophy of life takes place in soccer," Almeyda said. "I try to carry myself with values. And then I have a belief. I believe in the history of the samurai people, and there’s a code called the Bushido code, and I manage myself based on this. Study it and you’ll see."
What is Bushido?
Bushido, first used in Japan during the 17th century, came into more common usage after Nitobe Inazō published Bushido: The Soul of Japan in 1899. It can be loosely compared to the notion of chivalry.
Meaning "the way of warriors," Bushido has eight virtues: righteousness, heroic courage, benevolence and compassion, respect, honesty, duty and loyalty, honor and self-control.
Bushido can help guide Almeyda's journey with the Quakes, something he has been public with in past gigs. After winning this year's Concacaf Champions League, which featured victories over MLS sides Seattle Sounders, New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC, Almeyda pointed to it in his celebratory Instagram caption.
"Fans and players, thanks for showing so much love, soon I will give a statement explaining how things happened. Always remember what I said about the Bushido Code."
