Hideto TAKAHASHI, who was with FC Tokyo from the 2008 to 2016 seasons (in 2008 and 2009 as a JFA/J.League special designated player), was appointed as the "FC Tokyo Global Business Strategy Advisor" in April 2026. He has experience not only in international matches as a member of the Japan national team but also in matches against overseas clubs, such as the 2015 Germany tour as an FC Tokyo player. Currently residing in New Zealand, a culturally different environment, "Takahide-sensei" continues to broaden his perspective not only in football but also in various other fields. We asked him about the highlights of the international friendly match against Borussia Dortmund to be held on Saturday, August 1.
◇ Interview with Hideto TAKAHASHI, FC Tokyo Global Business Strategy Advisor, upon his appointment is here
An Opportunity to Showcase the Value of FC Tokyo as a Club, Not Just Its Players, to the World
Q. It has been decided that we will hold an international friendly match against Borussia Dortmund. Based on your experience as a player and also as FC Tokyo's Global Business Strategy Advisor, how do you view matches against overseas clubs?
A. I believe that playing against overseas clubs allows players to place themselves in an extraordinary environment different from their usual routine. Facing foreign teams and players makes them more strongly aware of their Japanese pride and their own style, and they always have the feeling of playing as challengers.
As a club, I believe there is a great deal to learn not only on the pitch but also in terms of management and business aspects. By experiencing the marketing and growth strategies of top overseas clubs, new ideas emerge and there is much to learn. In football, feeling the "world" and "different cultures" firsthand beyond the domestic scene is something I find extremely positive and important for the overall growth of the club.
Q. Please tell us about the value that matches against overseas clubs bring to FC Tokyo.
A, for players, it is an opportunity for stimulation and growth, and for the club, it is a valuable occasion to compare itself with the world. Additionally, from a business perspective, it is a chance to build connections overseas. Although there are language and cultural barriers, the experiences and insights gained within that context are undoubtedly significant. I believe that such accumulation will lead to FC Tokyo's next step.
Q. What is your impression of Borussia Dortmund, the opponent in this match, and which players should we watch?
A, Dortmund, without me having to explain, is a club with a long tradition and is highly regarded worldwide not only for its top team but also for its player development. The Bundesliga features characteristics different from Japan in terms of physicality, speed, and intensity of play, but at the same time, the technical skills are also very high. Personally, I am paying attention to player number 27, Karim Adeyemi. He has speed, the ball naturally comes to him, and the moment he faces forward with the ball, there is a sense of goal-scoring threat—that kind of appeal. Player number 14, Maximilian Bauer, is still young but is a wonderful player full of dynamism.
Q. What are the key points to watch for FC Tokyo in this match?
A, while we look forward to the performances of young players like Megumu Sato, who has been maintaining good form in the Century Vision League, it will also be a highlight to see how seasoned players such as Yuto NAGATOMO and Masato MORISHIGE respond to world-class opponents. Although this is a friendly match, it is a valuable opportunity to gain international experience, and it could serve as a momentum builder for FC Tokyo heading into the 26/27 J.League season opener, as well as raise the individual awareness of the players. How they choose to compete is also a point to watch closely.
Q. To all the fans and supporters, please tell us how to enjoy the match.
A, I definitely want you to pick a "favorite player" to watch. Of course, you can choose a player from FC Tokyo, but you might also find a player from Dortmund who suits your preferences. Whether it's their playing style or their looks, finding even just one player to focus on will expand your enjoyment of the match. It’s wonderful if this game sparks your interest in overseas soccer, and conversely, it could also be an opportunity for fans abroad to get to know FC Tokyo. FC Tokyo, bearing the name of TOKYO—a city known worldwide—holding a match like this surely has greater value than many might realize. Please enjoy this stage to the fullest.
*The players listed are as of June 11, 2026.
Ticket purchase is here
