Questioning about kumite/sparring

Hi guys, I’m 19, I’m from Italy, and I’m a 3rd kyu in Shotokan karate. I have been in love with karate since my first class, and I try to give my best in every lesson I attend. My sensei has been like a father to me, and I feel he is very special to me.

However, I’ve been questioning kumite for a while. What I mean is that our training never involves jiyu kumite. Let me explain: we usually practice kumite combinations, even at high speed, and I feel my reflexes are improving day by day. However, we always announce our techniques, so we always know what to expect.

Sometimes, I feel like I’m missing something—not because I think what I do is ineffective (I truly believe it is effective), but because I don’t really know what real sparring feels like.

Any suggestions? Thank you!