A fantasista who cast a spell on the pitch
Proving overwhelming strength in blue and red
MF 71 Ryotaro ARAKI
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.
Joining the team on a loan transfer, Ryotaro ARAKI quickly became a key player with a stunning debut of 4 goals in the first 4 matches. His ability to break through situations with a pass and his elegant one-touch play in front of the goal showcased the magic he brought to the pitch, making him indispensable in discussing Tokyo this season. He has once again been named to the U-23 Japan national team and experienced reaching the quarterfinals at the Paris Olympics in the summer. He tasted the grand stage of the world. How does 'Taro' view the year at the blue-red team, which should have been a turning point in his football career?
How many people felt excited when they heard that Ryotaro ARAKI was joining? There were many voices of expectation. But to be honest, there were also some voices of concern. Look at it now. Everyone in blue and red calls him "Taro" and places their full trust in him. The first player in the club's history to wear number 71 has proven himself with his play.
I have mentioned this many times before, but Ryotaro ARAKI absolutely hates being described with words like “revival” or “comeback.” This is not due to unnecessary pride or strange stubbornness, but because he has a solid confidence within himself that he can do it. He has expressed such strong feelings in words since before the season started, and looking at his performance during the season, it was immediately convincing. When asked again about his decision to play in Tokyo towards the end of the season, he gave a pleasant answer.
I believe my choice was not wrong. I was able to be part of the U-23 Japan national team and go to the Paris Olympics. I think this season is built on the experiences of the season before last and last season, but I believe this has broadened my career options, and I want to pursue an even better career from here.
Araki spoke with a hint of happiness and a sense of relief this season. The first half, especially with the simultaneous activities of the team and the national team, was hectic. However, that busyness, which he felt after a long time, was also quite pleasant.
"Anyway, I was really busy with everything in front of me during the first half of the season. But it was fun. I had a little time to reflect in the second half of the season, and I realized that being busy is a good thing. The first half of the season had a lot of consecutive matches, but the feeling of going to represent during the off period was truly the most fulfilling time as a player. It was a fun season, with a sense of nostalgia that I hadn't experienced recently."
When reflecting on this season as a team, the name Ryotaro ARAKI is absolutely indispensable. Similarly, when Ryotaro ARAKI looks back on his future professional career, it would be a happy thing if he thinks, 'It was because of the 2024 season in Tokyo.'
"I have definitely gained confidence. Many fans believe that 'Taro can do it,' and I think I was able to play well this season for all of you. I believe this is the result of continuing to play without changing my playing style."
His creativity saved the team and added color to the attack. With a dedicated attitude that does not shy away from hard work, he led the blue and red and became a player remembered in records and memories.
Taro will continue to run in his own way.
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
