Q: What is the background behind your decision to transfer?
A, I felt a great attraction to Tokyo. I thought that I could continue to grow here and decided to take on the challenge.
Q, what was your impression of Tokyo from the outside?
A, we played a match in the opening game against a team with a very strong counterattack. Their defense is also solid and they have a very high individual ability.
Q, I think the part that grew in Kawasaki was very significant.
It was one and a half years, but I was able to grow a lot and it wasn't as intense as one and a half years. It was a time that changed my life, more profound than what I learned in my soccer career.
Q, did you also feel the desire to make use of what you learned in the game precisely because you had so much to learn?
A, I had a sense of pride in my own growth, so I was smoldering for a long time without being able to seize the opportunity. In the midst of that, I received a wonderful opportunity from Tokyo, so I strongly felt the desire to challenge myself and decided to transfer.
Q, I think you are a player who can play in various positions, but where do you want to compete?
I want to compete as an anchor or inside half.
Q, among the position battles, there are players like Aoki and Higashi who play as anchors. What are the points where you can appeal more to them?
It is important to not lose in the ball game and to take control of the midfield as the center, taking advantage of the size and horsepower of the body. However, I have not been able to score points or achieve visible results in the game, so I want to be able to do that in Tokyo.
Q, what would you like to be called by the fans and supporters?
A, please do it with "Kouki".
Q: Did you choose the number 35 for any particular reason?
I have a LINE group for my family, and when I asked there what would be a good jersey number, my sister said "35" would be good because it means "the best" (saikou).
Q: You said that moving the ball is your strength, does that mean you have confidence in ball control?
A, earlier, I said that this year and a half has been more intense than most of my football life, and I really have touched the ball and played it that much. There are areas that can be further explored, but I am confident.
Q, Was there any part that you felt you needed to learn after joining Tokyo's practice?
Regarding the position, all teams are particular about it, so the coach said that it is very important to see the opponent and decide where to stand, so I have been playing while constantly thinking about it since today's practice. I think there are also parts that the coach is looking for, so I hope to adjust well while listening carefully.
Q, how is the atmosphere in Tokyo?
A, it is very easy to blend in and feel at home. I thought it was really good that everyone was cheering and supporting each other for every practice today, and there was a great sense of unity in the team.
Q, please tell us your enthusiasm for Tokyo again.
I decided to come to Tokyo in order to combine my strengths and what I have been able to grow so far, and to be able to bring them out well. I want to challenge myself there firmly.
