The two understand that demanding more from those around them means they must deliver even better performances themselves. Sometimes they lead from the front, pulling others along, sometimes they fall back to give a push from behind, and sometimes they stay in the center to keep an eye on the whole team. They understand that guiding the team in the same direction and creating a sense of unity leads to the "best view." No matter what anyone says, these men are serious. By believing in themselves, victory will follow. Morige, who desperately wants the league title, and Terry, who wants to experience that joy again and again, are both determined.
──I'll get straight to the point. What does winning the league mean to both of you?
Mori Shige I have always had this feeling. However, it's difficult to realize it, so I can only keep challenging myself while struggling like this. The reason we haven't achieved it so far is because there are underlying causes, and we need to dig deeper into that. Right now, I am trying to change under Peter. We can only actively work on what we talked about today as a team. After all, in the end, we want to achieve it, right? If we can achieve that, I can say, "I have no regrets in my soccer life" and end it there. If that happens, I will be satisfied (laughs).
Nakagawa Hmm, the league title is absolutely necessary for the club to change. That's something I felt when I won it myself. Last season, I was trying to find the reasons why Tokyo couldn't win the league, but I don't think there is an answer to that. Winning comes into view by steadily building up step by step, so personally, I am extremely frustrated with last season's ranking. I was always thinking about why we couldn't win while playing. That's why being able to work with Peter from the start this season is significant. The style of football we are aiming for is quite difficult, and we need to come together as one, becoming a family, while correcting things for better or worse, and getting stronger by solving each problem. I feel that this is what Tokyo needs the most right now. If we can get that part right, I believe we can become a team that is truly unstoppable. I don't know if Mori-kun will be here for the last season, but when we win the league title, I will be incredibly happy (laughs).
Mori Shige I would be happy if it ends like that, but it's also sad (laughs).
Nakagawa Well, that's just a joke (laughs). However, I also have those feelings of commitment. I will be 32 this year, and Mori-kun is even older. In a short football career, how many titles we can win is very important, and I personally want to win my third league title. But it doesn't mean anything if only one person is trying hard. If we can all work together as a team towards our goal, I believe we can see the best scenery.
Mori Shige Teru also said that a sense of unity is really important. It's not just about the team, but also includes the club staff and the fans/supporters. I believe that if everything doesn't come together, it's not something that can be easily achieved. I know that when everyone's passion is united, it becomes a great strength, so I want to cherish that sense of unity.
──The goal is to win the league. What kind of season do you want to have in the 2024 season?
Morishige Of course I want to win the league title, but personally, I want to take on a challenge that transcends age once again. I want to prepare myself even more so that I can always be a strength for the team.
Nakagawa I believe that if the forwards produce results and numbers, we will naturally get closer to winning. I want to reach double digits in goals and assists, and I think that will strengthen the team. Since I received the green light from Mori-kun, I will be allowed to play freely in the forward position (laughs).
Morishige Please have fun and do as you like there (laughs).
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
