Q. How do you feel now that you have put on the blue and red uniform again after two seasons?
A. It feels like something I have been waiting for eagerly. I was with Fagiano Okayama during the 2025 season, but I kept watching Tokyo’s matches. I am truly looking forward to the 2026 season when I can finally wear the blue and red and play.
Q. If you start in the league opening match, I believe it will be your first experience doing so.
A. Last season as well, I was unable to participate in the league opening match due to activities with the Japan national team. In the 2024 season, I also felt frustrated as I missed playing by just a small margin. The opening match is an important game both for the team and personally. I want to make sure to get off to a good start.
Q. Having just joined the team after activities with the U-23 Japan national team, how do you feel about your readiness?
A. My condition is very good, and I don’t feel like I have any major disadvantages. I feel that I have smoothly integrated with the team, and with many new players joining, I sense that FC Tokyo is heading toward the league opening in a somewhat different way.
Q. Once again, how do you feel about the style of soccer that Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI aims for?
A. I get the impression that we value possession of the ball while also emphasizing the solid defense characteristic of Tokyo. Since starting practice, I have felt that the number of vertical passes has increased compared to before. Playing is enjoyable, and I find it rewarding.
Q, It is also a World Cup year.
A. First, I believe that unless I can demonstrate overwhelming numbers and performance in the Meiji Yasuda J1 Hundred Year Vision League, there is no path to joining the Japan national team. My goal is to grow during this special tournament over about six months, to level up one or two more times, and to focus on achieving results.
Q. The opponent in the opening match is the Kashima Antlers, who won the league last season.
A. Most of Kashima's key players have remained, and they are undoubtedly a top contender for the championship. Against such an opponent, I want to pursue both my own abilities and the team's results.
Q. What is required to develop Tokyo to a higher level?
A. I believe it is important to fully demonstrate what we have built up in matches. It is essential that everyone faces the style the team aims for. We want to firmly accept the challenges and play without turning away from the results.
