the side on numerous occasions throughout the 2017 season. He, once again, helped Kashima Antlers keep three clean sheets between 19 August 2017 and 9 September 2017. Shoji then scored his second goal of the season against Vissel Kobe in the quarter–finals of the Emperor's Cup, as they lost 5–4 in the penalty shoot–out (which he, himself, successfully converted a penalty) after the game finished 1–1 throughout extra time. Shoji later helped Kashima Antlers keep three clean sheets in the last three remaining matches but the club finished second place behind Kawasaki Frontale. Following this, Shoji said he was determined to help the club win a trophy next season. For his performance in the 2017 season, Shoji was named J.League Best XI for the second time in his career. Having played every match at the end of the 2017 season, Shoji went on to make forty–six appearances and scoring two times in all competitions. In the 2018 season, Shoji helped Kashima Antlers keep two clean sheets in the first two league matches of the season. He then captained the side for the next three matches between 13 March 2018 and 31 March 2018. However, Shoji suffered a calf injury that saw him miss two matches. It wasn't until on 14 April 2018 when he made his return to the starting line-up from injury, in a 2–0 win against Nagoya Grampus. However, Shoji's return was short–lived when he was sent–off for a second bookable offence, in a 4–1 loss against Kawasaki Frontale in a follow–up match. Shoji returned from suspension, appearing in the starting line–up against V-Varen Nagasaki on 2 May 2018 and helped them win 2–1. Following the World Cup, Shoji's performance during the tournament attracted interests from clubs around Europe, but he responded to the transfer speculation by stating he wanted to stay at Kashima Antlers. It wasn't until on 22 July 2018 when Shoji made his return to the starting line-up as captain against Kashiwa Reysol and led the side to win 6–2. However, his return was short–lived when he suffered ankle injury and had to be substituted in the 41st minute during a 2–0 win against Cerezo Osaka on 25 July 2018. Initially out for three weeks, Shoji was eventually sidelined for three months. It wasn't until on 14 October 2018 when he made his return from injury, coming on as a late substitute, in a 2–2