The imperfect combustion that comes from fighting with all your might
In his first year of joining, he became the "blue and red man"
MF 22 Keita ENDO
People, players, and stories. Introducing the 2024 PLAYER'S REVIEW, featuring all the blue and red warriors who fought through the 2024 season. What were their thoughts and feelings during the season? Confidence, progress, challenges, joy, and regret... Each player will reflect on their battles this season in their own words.
In his first year in Tokyo, Keita ENDO scored impressive goals that saved the team. He became a true "blue and red man" after scoring two goals in the "Tokyo final" where defeat seemed imminent. He has overcome multiple injuries and achieved results. However, his ultimate goal is to reach the top. What is the desire and sense of crisis for victory that he felt from winning the J1 League and playing in Germany?
The two goals scored in the crucial match that could not be lost will surely be passed down in the long history of blue and red. It was a match against Tokyo Verdy, which was realized for the first time in 16 seasons in the J1 League. In a situation where they were at a numerical disadvantage and a defeat of 0-2 seemed likely, the number 22 in his first year with the team completely changed the atmosphere and saved the team. First, he was sent onto the pitch as a substitute and 7 minutes later, he smashed a cross with his right foot. Then, in the additional time of the second half, he drove in a powerful left footed shot while trailing by one goal. "Keita Endo of Tokyo" was born with these two goals.
After spending about three and a half years in Germany, Keita ENDO returned to the J-League and chose the capital club as his new destination. He has repeated the two words "gratitude" to Tokyo, which gave him playing opportunities from the beginning of his joining. Although he was sidelined due to injury this season, he has produced results every time he returned to the pitch. His impressive strength in crucial moments stands out. However, his self-evaluation is strict, saying "I may have achieved the minimum results, but I could have done more and I am not satisfied." He has scored many impactful goals, starting with his two goals in the aforementioned Tokyo V match, as well as in the Albirex Niigata match at the Japan National Stadium and the Vissel Kobe match away.
And above all, the greatest charm of this man lies in his overflowing passion and straightforward words. He clearly states what is good and what is bad, holds himself to high standards, and at times, even throws harsh words at his team. This did not change even as the first season in Tokyo reached its climax and the possibility of winning the title disappeared. He strongly desires to win with this team and bring the first J1 League title to Tokyo. That is why he feels a sense of crisis in the current situation where he was unable to join the title race and the season has ended.
"I feel that the people on the management side are working very hard. Both Ajinomoto Stadium and National Stadium have a great atmosphere. However, no matter how hard the club staff try to increase the number of fans and supporters and raise the heat of the stadium, there is a limit if we, the players, do not respond with results. That is up to us players to put in the effort. So, our current ranking is not good enough. With this ranking, there will be no synergistic effect."
Becoming a member of Tokyo and fighting with all my might, I was able to see and feel things. The first year in blue and red ended in "incomplete combustion". In order to use this feeling as a springboard for the new season, Keita ENDO aims for even greater heights.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
