To demand from those around you means that the two of them understand that they are expected to play at a higher level. Sometimes they stand at the front and lead with their backs, sometimes they fall to the back and give a push, and sometimes they keep an eye on the whole team from the center. They understand that no matter what, bringing the team together 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 come. Morige, who wants the league title no matter what, and Terry, who is determined to experience that joy again and again.
──Let me ask you directly. What does winning the league mean to you?
Morishige I have always had a dream. But it's difficult to make it come true, so I have no choice but to keep challenging while worrying. There must be a reason why I haven't achieved it yet, so I need to dig deeper into it. I'm trying to change under Peter's guidance. We have to actively work on what we talked about today as a team. After all, we want to win in the end, right? If we can achieve that, we can say "no regrets in my soccer career" and end it. If that happens, I'll be satisfied (laughs).
Nakagawa Hmm, the league title is definitely necessary when changing clubs. It's something I personally felt when I won. Last season, we were trying to find the reason why Tokyo couldn't win the league, but I don't think there is an answer. Winning the league is something that becomes visible by steadily building step by step, so I was personally very frustrated with last season's ranking. I kept thinking why we couldn't win and played while thinking about it. So this season, it's a big deal to be able to work with Peter from the beginning. The soccer we are aiming for is quite difficult, and we need to become a family and solve each problem together, while making adjustments for better or worse. I feel that this is the most important thing for Tokyo right now. If we can get that part right, I think we can become an unstoppable team. I don't know if Mori-kun will be leaving after this season, but when we win the league title, I'll be so happy I could die (laughs).
Morishige I'm happy and sad at the same time when it comes to the end (laughs).
Nakagawa Well, that's a joke (lol). However, I also have that kind of determination. I will turn 32 this year, and Mori-kun is even older. How many titles we can win in our short soccer career is very important, and I also want to win my third league title. But it doesn't mean anything if I'm the only one working hard. If we can all work towards our team goal, I think we can see the best view.
Mori Shige Teru also said that a sense of unity is really important. Not just for the team, but also for the club staff and fans and supporters. If everything doesn't come together, it's not something that can be easily achieved. I also know that when everyone's passion comes together, it can become a great force, so I want to value that sense of unity.
──Aiming for the league championship. What kind of season do you want to have in 2024?
Morishige Of course, I want to win the league title, but personally, I want to challenge myself beyond my age again. I want to continue to prepare myself more and more so that I can always contribute to the team.
Nakagawa I think if the players in the front line can 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 be a strength for the team. I received the okay from Mori-kun, so I will be allowed to play freely in the front line (laughs).
Morishige Have fun and do as you like (lol).
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
