A versatile defensive midfielder who strengthens the blue-red midfield
Becomes a new key player in offense and defense with his "voice"MF 8 Takahiro KO
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 do they have as they face 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──. Takahiro KO, who transferred from Albirex Niigata this off-season. He is expected to be the key to the attack with his passing and positioning, as well as being a "midfield destroyer" with his strong ball recovery. Another significant weapon is his voice. His coaching, which controls the whole team, may symbolize Tokyo in the 2024 season.
A versatile defensive midfielder has arrived from Albirex Niigata. He played three seasons in Niigata, which focuses on positional play, learned the fundamentals of build-up play, and established himself as a key player in the midfield. He has recognized his own skill improvement and, in addition to his inherent ball-winning ability, has acquired finesse.
That man is now ready to don the blue and red uniform starting this season. Initially, he showed some confusion playing among the strong personalities of Tokyo's players, but as time passed, he blended into the team and has quickly made a fitting impression since then.
The man who can be both lubricant and compass in the center of the pitch can fight in any situation. While there are many points of interest such as precise passing skills, wide vision, and intense pressure, what stands out even more is his high-quality voice. The way he surveys the entire team and calls out to his teammates at the right timing is top-notch.
"During my time with Gamba Osaka U-23, Tsuneyasu MIYAMOTO (current Executive Director of the Japan Football Association) told me, 'You need to communicate from the back,' and I realized the importance of voice. Therefore, speaking out is essential for me to create the game on both the offensive and defensive sides. I believe it is necessary to move those around me to read the game better and to make things easier for myself. Since I don't have all the answers, I want to seek opinions from those around me as I go along."
The defensive midfielder position is a fiercely competitive area filled with talented players. The battle for a regular spot is intense. However, I approached the capital club knowing this.
"Honestly, I think it's one of the most competitive positions in the J1 League, but that's part of the reason I came to Tokyo. Moreover, Tokyo has never won a league title. I have my own strengths, so I want to showcase them while becoming a key player for the team, winning titles, and making my mark in the club's history."
Running, fighting, and raising his voice for the team for 90 minutes, especially in tough times. He, affectionately known as 'Yan', strengthens the blue and red on both offense and defense.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
