Based in the hometowns of Kashima City, Itako City, Kamisu City, Namegata City, and Hokota City in Ibaraki Prefecture. Head coach Toru ONIKI, who led the team to its first league championship in nine years in his inaugural season, will continue to lead this season. Without major reinforcements, the team will continue to build around the existing squad. Centered on Tomoki HAYAKAWA, who was named last season's J.League MVP, and Leo CEARA, who won the top scorer title with 21 goals, the team aims for consecutive league championships.