Versatile defensive midfielder who tightens the blue and red midfield
A new key player in both attack and defense with his "voice"MF 8 Takahiro KO
Special content introducing the all-blue and red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players thinking and what kind of determination are they approaching the year with as they prepare for the opening? The players' stories are filled with club love, thirst for titles, aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill. Takahiro KO, who transferred from Albirex Niigata this off-season, is expected to be the key to the attack with his passing and positioning, as well as a powerful ball recovery as a "midfield destroyer". And his other big weapon is his voice. His coaching to control the entire team may become a symbol of Tokyo in the 2024 season.
A versatile midfielder has arrived from Albirex Niigata. He played for 3 seasons at Niigata, which focuses on positional play, and learned the basics of build-up play, establishing himself as the key player in the midfield. He has improved his skills, as recognized by himself and others, and has also developed his ability to steal the ball in addition to his natural talent.
The man will finally wear the blue and red uniform this season. After joining, he struggled to adapt to the play of Tokyo players with strong individuality, but over time he has blended into the team and has quickly fit in.
A man who can be both a lubricant and a compass in the center of the pitch, he can fight in any situation. With precise passing skills, a wide field of vision, and intense pressing, he is always a player to watch. But what stands out even more is his high-quality voice. He surveys the entire team and uses his voice to support his teammates at the right time, making it top-notch.
"When I was in Gamba Osaka U-23, Tsuneyasu Miyamoto (current director of the Japan Football Association) told me, 'You need to communicate from behind.' That's when I realized the importance of using my voice. So, using my voice is essential for me to create the game on both offense and defense. It's also necessary to move the players around me and to make things easier for myself. I don't have all the answers, so I want to continue seeking opinions from those around me."
The position of the defensive midfielder is a fiercely competitive area with a variety of talented players. The battle for a starting spot is intense. However, I am aware of this and still chose to knock on the door of the capital club.
"Honestly, I think it's one of the most competitive positions in the J1 league, but that's why I came to Tokyo. Plus, Tokyo has never won a league title before. I have my own strengths, so I want to appeal to them and win the title as a key player in the team, and leave my mark on the club's history."
He runs, fights, and raises his voice for the team for 90 minutes. He is known by the nickname "Yan" and tightens the blue and red on both offense and defense, especially in tough times.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
