As a longtime fan of the series, I've always found the lingering connection between Izuku and Shigaraki fascinating, especially given the eight-year timespan mentioned. It seems that the creators intentionally kept this element ambiguous to deepen the storyline and create emotional tension. From my observations and discussions with other fans, this continued perception of Shigaraki by Izuku likely symbolizes the lasting impact of their shared history and conflicting ideals. It might represent how past conflicts and unresolved emotions continue to influence the present, even when characters are physically apart. Additionally, this link could be interpreted as a narrative device highlighting Izuku's growth and challenges in dealing with his own fears and perceptions. The muting of the original sound in related scenes adds a layer of mystery and urges viewers to focus on the visual cues, possibly emphasizing the psychological aspect of Izuku’s experience rather than just a literal encounter. For anyone intrigued by character development and symbolic storytelling, this aspect is a great example of how the series uses time and perception to deepen emotional complexity. Keep an eye on subtle visual details and dialogues in future episodes or chapters, as they may further unveil why Izuku continues to perceive Shigaraki so vividly after such a long period.