Determined to a full transfer with gratitude and repayment
Many "salute" performances with jersey number 9
FW 9 Marcelo RYAN
Introducing all the Blue-Red warriors participating in the Meiji Yasuda J1 Century Vision League 2026 season in 'PLAYERS FILE 2026.' What kind of thoughts do the players hold, and with what determination are they preparing to face the special half-season tournament and the year ahead?
In the 2025 season, Marcelo RYAN, who played 35 official matches and scored 13 goals on loan from Sagan Tosu, has made a permanent transfer to Tokyo. Changing his jersey number to 9, he vows to evolve further. What are the thoughts behind this, and what is he considering to enhance his value as a finisher with outstanding scoring ability?
The promising first season with the blue and red. The 23-year-old striker achieved a hat-trick in the J.League YBC Levain Cup 2nd Round match against RB Omiya Ardija, scored two goals each in Sec. 14 against Albirex Niigata and Sec. 20 against Cerezo Osaka in the 2025 Meiji Yasuda J1 League, and also two goals in the Emperor's Cup quarterfinals against Urawa Reds. Repeatedly scoring multiple goals showcased glimpses of his great potential. Despite frequent injuries causing absences, 13 official match goals are enough to prove the ability of the young point-getter Marcelo Hian.
However, the amount of time away from the team due to minor injuries was troubling me. "If I hadn't gotten injured, I could have contributed more to the team..."
It is true that Hian often had a gloomy expression last season. However, this did not lead to frustration; rather, it became an underlying reason for him to try to fit in better with Tokyo.
"Getting injured makes me feel very negative. At such times, Kazunori IINO, the interpreter, and the people around me were considerate and helped me return quickly. I am very grateful for that."
Given the difficult team situation, it was not uncommon for fans and supporters to feel anxious about Hian, who kept scoring goals, potentially leaving the club. However, dreaming of success in Japan, he confessed, "In my heart, I always intended to stay with FC Tokyo," and this offseason, his determined full transfer was realized.
"I appreciate everyone's concern about my (transfer). However, I have wanted to play in Japan for a long time, and after playing for FC Tokyo for a year, I thought it was a very good team, so I decided on a permanent transfer."
As a member of Tokyo, Hian, who changed his jersey number to 9, said, "We players must continue to grow," and vowed to further evolve in the 2026 season. Emphasizing build-up play, he aims not only to finish by moving the ball forward as a group but also to score goals from long passes targeting behind the defense in one shot. "I discuss with Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI and the coaching staff about what I need and what I must correct," he said, intending to continue honing himself to become a player who can adapt to both.
Aspiring not only to showcase that potential but to grow into a striker recognized by everyone, and to give back to Tokyo, which has provided a great environment.
"I want to contribute by scoring as many goals as possible. Actually, I have a specific target number of goals in mind, but for now, I'll keep it to myself. I'll share it with you once I achieve the results."
Hian, who reached an agreement with the club during discussions for a permanent transfer, confirmed mutual affection with the blue and red team. Entering the 2026 season, he vows to contribute to the team while showcasing more of his "salute performance" and enhancing his own value.
(Honorifics omitted in the text)
Text by Masaru Goto (Freelance Writer)
