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.
I wanted to play a style of soccer that connects the ball, and I felt that the current soccer in Tokyo suits me. I was greatly attracted to the style. Also, when I spoke with the club, they conveyed their passionate desire for me to "fight together." It matched the style of soccer I am seeking, and I decided to compete in Tokyo.
Q: Did you consult anyone regarding this transfer?
I consulted with Kei KOIZUMI, who was my teammate at Kashima Antlers. He told me, "I'm sure it's a team that suits Taro," which I took into consideration when joining. Also, there are several acquaintances from the Paris Olympic generation, such as Kashif BANGNAGANDE and Kuryu MATSUKI, in Tokyo, so I'm not too worried about whether I can fit into the team.
Q: Your nickname is 'Taro', isn't it?
A, it's a nickname that I've been called since middle school, and I really like it. Until middle school, I was called 'Ryo', but since there was another 'Ryo' on the same team in middle school, I became 'Taro' (laughs). I hope everyone in Tokyo will call me 'Taro'.
Q: There is also Yuto NAGATOMO, a senior from Higashi Fukuoka High School.
A, two years ago, I had the opportunity to play together with the Japan national team. I didn't know the contact information, so I couldn't reach out, but I would like to talk about various things again.
Q: This transfer decision was made with affection and gratitude towards Kashima, and it must have taken considerable determination, don't you think?
First of all, I am very grateful to the people of Kashima who allowed me to become a professional soccer player. However, rather than having made a determination with this transfer, I have been playing with determination every season, so there is no significant change in my feelings about that.
I think there are expectations and pressure from the surroundings.
A, I don't get nervous very often, and I have confidence. I have no anxiety at all.
Q, this past two seasons have been plagued by injuries, and a complete comeback in Tokyo is awaited.
It is true that I wanted to change my environment. However, while many people say I have made a "comeback," I believe that my performance has already returned and my physical condition is good, even though I haven't played in the 2023 season. I think I was able to show this in practice, but I feel that I simply had fewer opportunities to play in matches, so honestly, I don't consider it a "comeback." I believe that if I get to play in matches, I can express my style of play, and I want to play soon.
Q: Please tell us about your characteristics and strong points.
A, my strengths are goals, assists, and ideas in front of the goal. I want to be involved in many plays and bring a lot of 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 that the attacking midfielder position is the switch for our offense. If the player in that position can carry the ball well, it leads to good attacks; if not, it can come to a halt. However, I am confident that I can do it. I have no worries and I am looking forward to it from now on.
Q: Do you have any impressions of Tokyo's attacking lineup?
When looking at each player, there are fast players on the sides, strikers up front, and I think we have the talent. From the time I faced Diego OLIVEIRA during my time at Kashima, I thought many times, 'He is a striker.' Teruhito NAKAGAWA's speed is a threat, and I believe he is a player with a high ability to score regardless of the left or right. That's why the player in the attacking midfield position is important. I hope that by effectively utilizing those around him, he can 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 think my first starting lineup in the J1 League as a professional was in the match against Tokyo at Ajinomoto Stadium. I also provided an assist in that game, and personally, I have a good impression of that stadium. That impression still remains strong with me.
Q: The Paris Olympics will be held in 2024, what are your thoughts on the U-23 Japan national team?
Yes, of course I am aware of it, but I haven't been able to play much in the last two seasons, so right now I am focusing on performing on the pitch rather than thinking about the future. I believe that only after I can do that will I be considered for selection, so I want to concentrate on getting on the field and working hard.
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. I currently have confidence in my play, but I'm in a situation where I can't participate, so my feelings are different from when I was a rookie. I have a strong desire to clear 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 we have the same goal, I believe we can achieve better results. I am looking forward to playing in front of the fans and supporters while wearing the blue and red uniform.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golazo, FC Tokyo Correspondent)
