Playmaker who creates rhythm in attack
Also expected to have a deadly set piece
MF 40 Riki HARAKAWA
Special content introducing the all-blue-red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players, who are facing the opening, thinking and what kind of determination are they going to face for a year? The story of the players who have club love, thirst for titles, thoughts for success, and the role they must fulfill - -. Riki HARAKAWA, who has finally completed a full transfer to Tokyo, imagines a game make that shows his own color. The key man who controls the attack at the bottom of the midfield should lead the team in the right direction.
Known for his precise and unmatched short and long passes, Riki HARAKAWA's game-making abilities, utilizing his wide field of vision, have become synonymous with his name. As the central figure on the pitch, HARAKAWA controls the rhythm of the attack and possesses the ability to become the key player for PITA Tokyo in their pursuit of attacking football.
Even in the third row where talents are crowded, there is a rare play style. Among many players who excel in "high intensity" with their physicality, intensity, and ball retrieval ability, number 40 stands out with their sense and technique. They value reading the flow and situation of the game and playing accordingly.
"Last season, there was a reflection that we couldn't play while looking at the opponent as a team. When we move, we move, but there are also times when it's better not to move. I want to use it while looking at the opponent more. There is no need for us to rush in or attack in a hurry."
Another notable weapon of his is his high-precision placekicking. Not only can he take direct free kicks at goal, but his kicks that reach his teammates' heads with pinpoint accuracy also carry the scent of a goal. "If we can score from set pieces, it will make things easier, so as a team, we want to pursue that." The team has struggled with not scoring enough from set pieces, so he is prepared to use his kicks as a solution.
Last season, I experienced a mid-season transfer for the first time in my career and tasted its difficulty, but this off-season, I finally completed my transfer to Tokyo. I am fully prepared to fight as a member of the blue and red team.
"I didn't have much success after transferring in the summer, but I know what kind of soccer I want to play, so I think I can start off well this season. I have a fresh start with a permanent transfer and I can easily show my own style. I want to make this team one that can continue winning."
From the pre-season leading up to the opening, he has been responsible for building the attack as the top midfielder. As the heart of the midfield, as a linkman, and as a set-piece specialist, Tokyo's Muriqui will lead the team in the direction they should go.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
