Enjoying the Evolution of Albert Tokyo [Player Edition]
~ 2022 Blue-Red Warriors, A Must-Check Recommendation! ~
Tokyo fans and supporters!
I apologize for the sudden interruption, but please indulge me with a personal story for a moment...
I served as the FC Tokyo correspondent for the soccer newspaper "El Golazo" until the 2020 season. During that time, I was greatly supported by everyone through my weekly articles. Even when I stepped down from my position, I received many loving messages on social media, and I am still filled with gratitude.
Having stepped away from journalism, I have changed to enjoy Tokyo with the same perspective as all of you. I have distanced myself from the reporting scene and now spend my days in a completely business-oriented role overseeing journalists from all over the country and engaging in business development. I mainly watch matches on DAZN and attend stadiums, not from the press seats but taking my son along with tickets to enjoy the experience. In both work and viewing, there are many perspectives that were not visible during my time as a journalist, which was focused on reporting and outputting articles. This could be rephrased as a fan and user perspective.
Of course, this is nothing special for the fans and supporters who usually work at the company. I believe many people find "soccer" and "Tokyo" as a momentary enjoyment to forget about work in their busy lives.
When I was a reporter, it was common to think in a complicated way about "tactics and player analysis." Of course, I keep the insights and perspectives I developed back then in the back of my mind, but I am genuinely excited and sometimes frustrated, experiencing a range of emotions while enjoying "soccer" and "Tokyo" with pure feelings. By the way, this article was written right after Sec. 13, the match against Iwata. The team is currently on a three-game losing streak... I can understand how everyone feels (bitter smile).
There was an opportunity to predict the champion at the start of this season.
I was thinking in my heart, "Tokyo, could this be the season?" Normally, it would be unlikely for a team that struggled last season to suddenly win the championship with a new coach. However, I am no longer a calm reporter (laughs). In the past, the thought of "championship" would never have crossed my mind so easily, but now, as I look at Tokyo purely, I might naturally be becoming more optimistic. "This team is strong this season, right?" Indeed, I am in a state of "overly enthusiastic fan mentality." Yes.
That said, this is not an opinion without any basis at all.
The reason I recommend Tokyo this season is that they are confidently challenging an attacking style with a strong lineup.
The history of Tokyo has seen a drastic shift in styles. In recent years, there has been a tendency to achieve results primarily during periods of defensive team structures. The eras of Massimo FICCADENTI and Kenta HASEGAWA are good examples.
However, I want to see how far we can compete with an attacking style of football when we have good players. There may be those who have been holding this desire deep down. That long-awaited time has finally come. The current players in Tokyo have the potential to fight at a high level that makes you want to watch the matches in the stadium.
And yet, Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA. He surprisingly has a serious side as well. While it takes time to build a style that connects passes, he also emphasizes essential elements for victory such as quick counterattacks, high-intensity play, and hard work. Contrary to being just an idealist, he also values results. Observing this balance heightens the enjoyment of the matches and the anticipation for the winners.
This time the club said, "Please write an article that focuses on the players." But, I realize I've been talking about myself and not about the players at all... Honestly, there are so many players who exhibit attractive behavior under an offensive style of soccer this season that I can't possibly cover them all.
Above all, it's great that all the players are showing new sides of themselves, big or small.
The goalkeeper with a series of big saves
Newly joined goalkeeper, Jakub SLOWIK. Outstanding. Just like during his time in Sendai, he is exciting the stadium with big saves in Tokyo as well, but what I am concerned about is his play with the ball at his feet. Certainly, there are mistakes, but he is connecting passes more reliably than expected. Don't you all think so? He mentioned before the season started, "I know the importance of absorbing new things. I want to adapt to Tokyo's style." His attitude can be seen in his current play. A hard worker, truly wonderful.
The starting point of fun is the defender duo
Masato MORISHIGE and Yasuki KIMOTO, both center-backs. They are modern, aren't they? Modern defenders are not just about defending. Morishige has long supported the team with his high-precision kicks, but this season, KIMOTO has joined, creating a new skillful duo. KIMOTO's vertical passes are sometimes sharp and sometimes smooth, just like Morishige's. Under Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA's style of play, these two have become even more important as the starting point of attacks. Soccer becomes exciting as you get closer to the opponent's goal, but this season in Tokyo, the excitement begins with "playing from the back = the timing when Morishige and KIMOTO have the ball." This is something you can't miss.
Handsome, Energetic, Fresh Lefty
As you all know, the charm of Kuryu MATSUKI, the "Handsome, Energetic, Fresh Midfielder," is already well-known. He shines brightly and exudes charisma. However, for those who have never seen MATSUKI play live, you should definitely watch him at the stadium. As a candidate for Tokyo's new star, he moves well and runs a lot. Moreover, he has a strong physique. Watching him play is refreshing and exhilarating, and his movements catch your eye effortlessly. With his back straight and good posture as he runs across the pitch, you will surely be captivated from the stands. He is gradually becoming an important tactical presence, so by developing your understanding of soccer, you will gain even deeper insights into his play. He is perfect for those who want to enjoy the game in an easy-to-understand way, as well as for those who want to observe from a professional perspective.
The versatile ace in blue and red
The attacking lineup on display. Adailton's powerful breakthroughs, Leandro's technique that scored a super goal at the National Stadium, and Kensuke NAGAI's explosive speed. This season, Kazuya KONNO's dazzling dribbling has also been added, but the one I wholeheartedly support is the vice-captain, Diego OLIVEIRA. Honestly, he used to be a more inconsistent player, but after being in Tokyo for a long time, he has gained awareness and responsibility, which translates into his dedication in every match. Diego's tireless play has recently even moved me. It's like he has been playing well all along but has faced the dilemma of not being a winner, and now I can sense a certain sadness in him. That's why, more than ever, his strong desire to win comes through each year. The versatile ace in blue and red. In addition to his skillful and powerful play so far, this season's Diego, full of spirit, is a must-see.
I have written this down at length. One thing I can certainly say is that this season in Tokyo has been a different kind of battle compared to the past few years, visibly conveying a sense of enjoyment. From my current perspective as a fan and user, I honestly feel that the team is full of entertainment, with a lot of movement from both the ball and the players. Additionally, Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA's social media presence plays a significant role in bridging the gap between everyone and the team. In this interactive era, this sense of distance is important.
On the stage of an attacking style, a diverse cast dances. As the team's organizational skill improves, the players' individuality multiplies rather than adds, amplifying its appeal, which is the football of Albert PUIG ORTONEDA. This season, I look forward to seeing how far it can reach.
Finally, I wanted to convey this important message to everyone. I will deliver it in the style of the nostalgic variety show "Bakushou On Air Battle" that I was just revisiting the other day.
Creating a new Tokyo is... you, the coaches, players, and club staff, and those who are heading to Ajinomoto Stadium!
See you again! Thank you for staying with us until the end (laughs).
Text by Yuuki Nishikawa (El Golasso)
