Steady efforts bear fruit
The late-blooming hard worker finally breaks through
DF 99 Kosuke SHIRAI
Every person and player has a story. '2024 PLAYER’S REVIEW' introduces all the blue and red warriors who fought through the 2024 season, player by player. What thoughts did they carry as they went through the season? Confidence, a sense of achievement, challenges, joy, regret... Reflecting on this season's battles through the words of each individual.
Not only as a left and right fullback but also utilized as an attacking winger, Kosuke SHIRAI has demonstrated his outstanding speed and presence on both offensive and defensive ends. He has evolved into a key player supporting the team. The background of this evolution lies in the challenges he faced by confronting himself and the efforts to reach new heights. His commitment to growing into a player with more than just vertical driving force and the new challenges he has come to feel.
The reason number 99 attracted people's attention was the astonishing sprinting ability during the National back-to-back matches in April. In addition to the power-up of the characteristics he has traditionally possessed, the reason for his confidence lay in his own transformation.
"I felt that I really succeeded this season in transforming myself into a new version while receiving good stimulation."
Originally, Shirai is a side attacker type known for his forward momentum. However, in recent years, the side back position has required players to have the ability to play inside and possess technical skills with the ball at their feet. Tokyo was precisely trying to incorporate that element and move away from an over-reliance on vertical speed.
Shirai wanted to break away from his past self and aimed to secure a regular spot in Tokyo and join the Japan national team. To achieve this, he needed to take a good position and move the ball, so he had to refine his ball control at his feet.
As a result of the training that started last season, I have been able to demonstrate skills at a level that allows for collaboration with the main team. This has generated great confidence and led to my inclusion in the team.
"I really felt a significant (technical) change in myself. I truly believe that coming to this team was the right decision. Without experiencing tough times after transferring, it's hard for a person to grow. I think being able to put myself in such an environment and change will greatly impact my future in football."
If there are two types of people, those who can achieve results quickly and those who improve over time, Shirai considers himself to be the latter. Should we call him a late bloomer? His efforts, including self-training, have steadily accumulated and blossomed this season.
"I have gradually accepted what I cannot do myself, and since the middle of last season, my sense has been improving little by little. I was able to incorporate that from the very beginning of this season. The final challenge is whether I can do that in official matches, in situations filled with tension. I believe the two consecutive matches at National and the away game against Albirex Niigata were truly significant turning points."
Unfortunately, the "Iron Man" who had not suffered major injuries at his previous clubs got injured just as he was increasing his playing opportunities in Tokyo. The reasons are complex, and this has become a new challenge for the future. Therefore, it was not a perfect season, but it remains true that he achieved a breakthrough to the extent that he is called "Super Shirai."
"I want to keep growing, and right now soccer is fun," said Shirai with a smile, marking the 2024 season as a breakthrough after gaining the trust of those around him.
Text by Katsu Goto (Freelance Writer)
