Ryotaro ARAKI, who wears the number 10 jersey, a symbol of Kashima Antlers, won the J-League Best Young Player Award in his second professional season. Starting from the 2024 season, he will don the blue and red uniform. In recent seasons, ARAKI has struggled with injuries and limited playing opportunities, but he vowed not just to make a comeback, but to further evolve.
Q: Please tell us how you felt when you received the offer from Tokyo.
A, I wanted to play soccer that connects the ball, and I thought the current style of soccer in Tokyo suited me. The style was a big attraction. Also, when I spoke with the club, they passionately expressed their desire for me to "fight together" with them. It matched the style of soccer I was looking for, so I decided to compete in Tokyo.
Q. Did you consult anyone regarding this transfer?
A, I consulted with Kei KOIZUMI, who was a teammate at Kashima Antlers. KOIZUMI told me, "Surely, it's a team that suits Taro," and that was also a reference when joining. Also, since there are several acquaintances from the Paris Olympics generation, such as Kashif BANGNAGANDE and Kuryu MATSUKI, in Tokyo, I am not too worried about whether I can blend into the team.
Q, your nickname is 'Taro', right?
A, this is a nickname I've been called since junior high school, and I really like it. Until junior high, I was called 'Ryo,' but since there was another 'Ryo' on the same team in junior high, I became 'Taro' (laughs). I want everyone in Tokyo to call me 'Taro' as well.
Q: There is also Yuto NAGATOMO, a senior from Higashi Fukuoka High School.
A, I had the opportunity to play together in the Japan national team two years ago. I didn't know the contact information, so I couldn't get in touch, but I would like to talk with him again about various things.
Q. This transfer was a decision made despite your attachment and gratitude to Kashima, so it must have involved considerable determination, right?
First of all, I am very grateful to the people of Kashima who made me a professional soccer player. However, rather than saying I made up my mind with this transfer, I have made up my mind and played every season, so there is no significant change in that feeling.
Q I think there are also expectations and pressure from those around you.
A, I rarely get nervous and I am confident. I have no anxiety at all.
Q, this past two seasons have been plagued by injuries, and a complete comeback in Tokyo is awaited.
A, it is true that I wanted a change of environment. However, although many people say it is a "comeback," in the 2023 season I simply haven't had the chance to play in matches, but my performance has already returned and my physical sharpness is there. I believe I was able to demonstrate it in practice, and I think it was just that I had few opportunities to play in matches, so honestly, I don't consider it a "comeback." I believe that if I get the chance to play, I can express my play, and I want to play as soon as possible.
Q: Please tell us about your characteristics and strong points.
A, goals, assists, and ideas in front of the goal are my strengths. I want to be involved in many plays and bring many goals to the team.
Q: If we consider continuing Tokyo's style this season, I think the main position will be the attacking midfielder.
I believe the attacking midfielder position is the switch for the offense. If the attacking midfielder can skillfully carry the ball, it leads to good attacks, but if not, the play will stall. However, I am confident I can do it. I have no worries and am looking forward to it from now on.
Q: Do you have any impressions of Tokyo's attacking lineup?
A, looking at each player, there are fast players on the sides, strikers up front, and I think the talent is well assembled. Since the time we faced each other during the Kashima era, I have often thought that Diego OLIVEIRA is truly a striker. Teruhito NAKAGAWA's speed is a threat, and I believe he is a highly capable player who can score regardless of the side. That is why the attacking midfielder is important. I think it would be great if they can skillfully utilize those around them to score goals or provide the final pass.
Q: Do you have any impressions or images of the team Tokyo and its home stadium, Ajinomoto Stadium?
A, I believe my first start as a professional in the J1 League was against Tokyo at Ajinomoto Stadium. I also made an assist in that match, so personally, I have a good impression of the stadium. That impression still remains strong to this day.
Q: The Paris Olympics will be held in 2024, what are your thoughts on the U-23 Japan national team?
A, of course I am aware of it, but I haven't been able to play much in matches over the past two seasons, so right now I am focusing on getting on the pitch and performing well rather than thinking about the future. I believe that only after I can do that will I be chosen, so I want to concentrate on getting playing time in matches no matter what.
Q: You are eager to participate in the match, right?
A, I think that expression is correct.
Q, is that a feeling close to when you first turned professional?
A, it might be a little different. Right now, I am confident in my play but not getting to participate, so my feelings are different from when I was a rookie. I have a strong desire to overcome the frustrations of the past few seasons.
Q: If Araki's hunger for matches and Tokyo's recent hunger for victories and titles create a chemical reaction, it could be an interesting season.
If our goals are aligned, I believe we can achieve better results. I am looking forward to wearing the blue and red uniform and playing in front of the fans and supporters.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golazo, FC Tokyo Correspondent)
