The story of Izuku Midoriya is legendary. Growing up, this young man wanted to be one thing; a hero. One that could keep everyone safe while smiling, similar to his number one, All-Might, but Deku had to go through many changes and challenges to become the hero fans now recognize him as today.
At the start of My Hero Academia, one fan is introduced to his shy character. He was uncertain of himself, pushed around by his peers, and was a huge fanboy. With the help of his idol, All-Might fans watched as Deku grew more confident as he gained control of One for All, even adapting some killer moves. So, what exactly changed in young Midoriya throughout My Hero Academia?
Level Up
After first receiving One for All, Deku had no clue how to manage the power, let alone control it. He was prone to hurting himself every time he used it, leading to the many scars on his hands. Viewers could tell that the driven boy was being beaten down. How could he be a hero if he had no control over his power? Well, he did eventually gain some understanding of this power and even created special moves based on his physique.
The first move Deku created was Full Cowl - Shoot Style. This move required Deku to use his lower body and legs more than his upper body. Deku can put more power into his strikes without breaking his bones by using his legs. Besides developing this move, Deku showed growth in himself. He was no longer relying on his mentor's moves to attack enemies, showing that he was becoming more comfortable with his power and who he is as a hero. Along with this technique, Deku used what he learned from All-Might's move, Delaware Smash to create Delaware Smash Air Force.
If all this wasn't enough, in season five, Deku was able to control and use Black Whip. On a couple of occasions, Deku could release Black Whip and contain the danger without any injuries. This is huge considering how long it took him to gain control of One for All. This could mean that for future quirks that emerge, it will take Deku a shorter amount of time to master them or at least get control.
A Hero at Heart
Besides Deku's increase in strength, fans have watched as he's developed as a character. For a while, Deku was known for being reckless with his body, taking injury after injury to save his friends and keep up with the others. During summer training, when the league of villains attacked and stole Bakuguo. Deku ended up having severe injuries that almost cost him his arms. After this, Deku realized that, while heroes do put their lives on the line to save others, if he is so injured he can't save people then it's not worth it. Afterward, he takes the time to have more gear made to protect his arms, his legs, and feet. His strategies also consider those in danger alongside the heroes trying to save them.
Deku has also grown in confidence as the series has progressed. He's no longer overthinking every move he makes, instead allowing himself to trust that he is making the right choices in the moment. All-Might even comments on this in the last episode of season five. Noting that Deku no longer looked to him for reassurance. Deku knows he is going to be a great hero, and he can trust himself to save those who need his help.
For the upcoming season of My Hero Academia, fans are certain to see more growth from young Midoriya. Based on the trailers that have been released, it would appear that the next season will focus on the big fight between the Paranormal Liberation Front and the Heroes. How much time will be covered before the big fight? Those who've read the manga will know, but fans who are watching the anime will have to wait until the Fall of this year to find out.
Until then, there are some strong theories that can be made about what will happen with Deku. Viewers will probably get the chance to see Deku work more with Black Whip, gain more control of One for All, and even get his next work. All-Might said it would be his mentor's quirk Float. There is also the chance that Deku's ability to talk to girls will get better since it's clear Uraraka likes him. With everything coming up fast with the hero's fight, fans will probably have to wait a bit longer for that reveal, but who knows.
Fans can rewatch My Hero Academia on Crunchyroll and Hulu to revisit the adorable season one Izuku and watch his amazing transformation into a hero.