A playmaker who creates rhythm in the attack
Expectations for a deadly set piece
MF 40 Riki HARAKAWA
A special content introducing all the blue and red warriors challenging the 2024 season. What are the players, who are about to start the season, thinking and what determination are they bringing into the year? The stories of the players, who hold in their hearts their love for the club, their thirst for titles, their aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill──. Riki HARAKAWA, who has successfully completed his transfer to Tokyo, envisions a game-making style that showcases his own color. The key player controlling the attack from the midfield will surely guide the team in the right direction.
His precise long and short passes and wide vision that allows him to oversee the entire pitch are his trademarks. Riki HARAKAWA, who reigns in the center of the pitch and controls the rhythm of the attack, possesses the ability to be a central player for PITA Tokyo in advancing attacking football.
Even in the crowded third area filled with talent, he is a unique presence with a rare playing style. Among many players characterized by high intensity, movement, strength, and ball recovery ability, number 40 stands out with his sense and technique. He values reading the flow and situations of the game and playing accordingly.
"Last season, we reflected on not being able to play by observing our opponents as a team. There are times to move and times when it's better not to. I want to be more selective while observing our opponents. We don't need to rush in or attack hastily."
Another notable weapon of his is his highly accurate set pieces. From free kicks that directly threaten the goal to pinpoint kicks that reach his teammates' heads, the scent of scoring is in the air. "It would be easy if we could score from set pieces, so we want to pursue that as a team." There have been times when the team struggled to increase goals from set pieces, and he is prepared to make his kicks the solution.
Last season, I experienced a mid-season transfer for the first time in my career and tasted its difficulties, but this off-season, I have successfully transferred completely to Tokyo. I am fully prepared to fight as a member of the blue and red.
"I transferred in the summer and didn't achieve much in terms of results, but I understand the kind of football I want to play, so I think I can start off well this season. With a full transfer, I have a fresh mindset and it's easier for me to express my style. Above all, I want to make this a team that can keep winning."
Since the preseason leading up to the opening match, he has been responsible for building the attack as the first-choice defensive midfielder. As the heart of the midfield, a link player, and a deadly set-piece kicker, Tokyo's Muriqui guides the team in the right direction.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
