Q. Please tell us about the process leading up to your decision to join FC Tokyo.
A. Originally, I was in contact with FC Tokyo through my agent and others. Then, over the past two weeks, the club showed strong interest, and the discussions progressed rapidly. I have personally wanted to play in Japan for some time, so I am truly happy that this transfer has come to fruition.
Q, what kind of impression do you have of Japanese soccer and the J.League?
A, I have the impression that Japanese soccer is very technical and fast-paced. From playing previously with players like Yuito Suzuki, Sho FUKUDA, and Kotaro Uchino, I felt the high level of skill among Japanese players. I am really looking forward to playing with such technically skilled players.
Q. What kind of role do you feel the club expects from you?
A. I am an attacking player. I can play as a winger, an attacking midfielder, and sometimes in central midfield. I enjoy holding the ball and creating opportunities for my teammates, and I want to contribute to the team through goals and assists. Also, I am good at actively moving into the penalty box, so I want to use that as one of my strengths.
Q, What is your strongest position?
A, I often play as a left winger, but I am not the type to stay wide along the touchline. I like to cut inside and combine with the forwards while playing. When I play as an attacking midfielder, I have a similar approach and am good at being involved in the game through the center.
Q, You have already joined the team practice today (July 18). How do you feel about your condition and overall feeling?
A, It was a very fulfilling time to play with a new team and new teammates. I also gained a deeper understanding of how my teammates play.
Q, Looking back on your professional career so far, how do you feel about the path you have taken?
A, Unlike many national team players who progress from big club academies to the top team and then gain experience with the Denmark national team, my professional career started in a league equivalent to the 6th division domestically. From there, through transfers and promotions of the teams I belonged to, I gradually moved up through the 5th division, 4th, 3rd, 2nd, and finally the top league, advancing one category at a time. It was a steady, step-by-step progression. Although I reached the top league a bit later than usual, I believe that was the best path for me. Ultimately, I was also selected for the Denmark national team. I have heard that it is very rare for a player with such a career path to be chosen for the Denmark national team.
And during the four years I spent at Brøndby IF (Denmark), I was truly able to have a fulfilling time. I was also selected for the Denmark national team and have many wonderful memories. I believe those four years were special in my career.
Q. I believe playing in Japan will be a new challenge. How do you feel about it now?
A. I definitely think it will be a big challenge. I have great respect for the high level of the J.League and Japanese players, and I see this as a new start in my career. I want to work hard to achieve results in this league and leave a good impression on many people.
Q. What would you like fans and supporters to call you?
A. 'Nico' is the best. In Denmark, people often call me by my last name, but I would be happy if you call me 'Nico.'
Q. What are you looking forward to enjoying privately in Japan?
A, I have heard from many people that Tokyo is the most wonderful city in the world. I want to learn about Japanese culture, meet many people, and absorb various things. That is also one of the reasons why playing in Japan has been my dream. Of course, I am also really looking forward to enjoying Japan’s delicious food.
Q. How was your first day after arriving in Japan?
A. Yesterday was really a busy day, but I was able to meet Yuito Suzuki (SC Freiburg). He took me to a sushi restaurant in Roppongi and treated me to an "omakase" sushi meal (laughs). The food was truly wonderful, and I had a very good time.
Q. Have you learned any Japanese?
A. "Omakase," "Hajimemashite," "Azassu (thank you)," and "Konnichiwa" (laughs). Also, I know that Alexander SCHOLZ can speak Japanese. I want to be able to speak Japanese in the future as well. I'm really looking forward to it.
Q. Please give a message to the fans and supporters who are looking forward to your success.
A. I am truly happy to be able to join FC Tokyo. I will give my all to meet everyone's expectations, and I am proud to wear this club's uniform.
