This is the story of the growth of Masato MORISHIGE, who wore blue and red and played in the most matches.
In 2010, the friendly guy wearing a typical down jacket who came to Odaiba for the fan book shoot was someone I never imagined would stand on the stage of the World Cup in Brazil a few years later.
Many seasons have passed, and many of the comrades who fought together have left the club. Still, number 3 is here. Morishige's achievements are something that cannot be found on the ground.
I have participated in the World Cup and have been awarded the Best Eleven in the J1 League multiple times. While standing in glamorous places, I have diligently honed my skills in unseen places, quietly building each day. I have spent many years living such days. To sprout upwards, I have rooted myself deeply downwards. I believe what I have nurtured are those unseen roots.
Firmly established and never stopping the pace of growth. Once, it was unapproachable and seemed like a seeker of truth. However, that has gradually changed. In recent years, it has become noticeable that they are giving advice to younger players and those around them.
This season, rookie Kota TAWARATSUMIDA was left out of the squad for the Levain Cup quarterfinal match against Avispa Fukuoka. Mori urged him, "In tough times, you must do it." He also told Kei KOIZUMI, "You need to talk more during the match and become a player who connects the front line and midfield," showing him the path forward. Opportunities to hear such discussions from surrounding players have increased. I believe that the players who knew Mori, who could only show by example, would be surprised to see his current form.
The deeply rooted roots have nurtured unwavering feelings. Perhaps I have begun the work of conveying that.
In this rapidly changing Tokyo, those who are out of touch may not be able to survive. However, in this sleepless city, there are two landmarks. I love the tower glowing in orange and the tree that overlooks it. I have witnessed their transformations.
The skills to live in such a place are told by the days that Masato MORISHIGE has spent. A flower that blooms suddenly will fall first. However, the roots that continue to grow patiently will eventually become a large tree.
The club created by people who are emotional and full of humanity still has many things remaining. There are also players who have fought desperately there. The history woven together has counted 25 years. It is enough to understand what is important. It's not that we won't forget; it's that we can't forget.
Where will the blue and red, which has marked a quarter of a century, head next──.
But, 'Life goes on.' Life, and the blue-red, will continue. Let's gather again at Ajinomoto. Imagine the day when we raise the trophy together with Masato MORISHIGE at that stadium.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
[25 Years of Journey] Special Column Here
25 Years of Journey vol.1 Things Not to Be Forgotten
25 Years of Journey vol.2 The Road to the First Title
25 Years of Journey vol.3 Blue Tokyo
25 Years of Journey vol.4 What Was Gained from Relegation and Promotion
25 Years of Journey vol.5 Strike While the Iron is Hot
25 Years of Journey vol.6 The Path to Take
25 Years of Journey vol.7 The Essence of Tokyo
