Passionate attackers talk about reflections and challenges
To become a truly strong team
Every person and player has a story. '2024 PLAYER’S REVIEW' introduces all the blue and red warriors who fought through the 2024 season, one by one. What thoughts did they carry as they went through the season? Confidence, a sense of achievement, challenges, joy, regret... Reflecting on this season's battles through the words of each player.
Teruhito NAKAGAWA, who ran through the season with a passionate heart. He played multiple positions including right wing, attacking midfielder, and center forward, consistently leading the team with aggressive and dedicated play. What stood out throughout the year was his relentless desire for victory displayed on the pitch. There were times when he cried on the pitch after matches out of frustration. There were also matches where he delivered results with a strong sense of purpose. He has consistently emphasized the importance of collaboration with supporters. The player wearing number 39 speaks again about what is necessary to become a truly strong team.
When asked for thoughts on this season, a short word was returned.
It was a very wasted season. I think that sums it up.
Taking a breath after saying that, I will continue for a little longer this time.
"There is a feeling that is similar yet different from last season. Last season, we couldn't win away, and this season, we couldn't win at home. We lost an important match at home, a match we had to win. To be honest, there were times when I felt the pressure of needing to win at home, but I think that, including that, reflects our lack of strength."
The frustration was palpable from Teruhito NAKAGAWA, who weaves words.
As a result, we did not achieve significant changes for two consecutive years. Although we were in a position to aim for the top in early spring, we found ourselves stagnating in the mid-table. "The team and the matches can be really good at times, but really bad at others. It feels like there are ups and downs, just like last season," Nakagawa pointed out, as the team went through a season of extreme fluctuations.
Where does the cause lie? While looking at both himself and the team, number 39 reiterated the words he has repeated many times before.
"Doing things thoroughly and continuing to do them leads to results. I think it's important for the team to remain consistent. Personally, even though I've played in many matches, I haven't been able to produce numbers, and I'm not satisfied at all. My performance has improved somewhat since that Hiroshima match (Meiji Yasuda J1 League Sec. 29) affected by the typhoon, but I need to maintain that throughout the season."
After expressing a mix of regret and reflection, Nakagawa appealed to the fans and supporters because it was "serious".
"I am really grateful to them. I can really feel their intense passion and desire to win, and I think that's only natural. However, since it's soccer, there are times when things don't go well. It is during those times that I want the fans and supporters to believe in us and not to judge us based on just 'that one match.' It's important to build this together not just with the players, coaches, and staff, but also with the fans and supporters. If we can create more unity, I believe Tokyo will become even better."
There is a continuation to the opening words. "If we had been able to accumulate points at home, it could have been a season where we could have won, so I am really frustrated." The time for "saving up" is over. Then, next season for sure──. Teru's passion is still burning strong.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
